tour guide edinburgh

 Edinburgh Tour Guides

We are a family run tour company that prides itself on providing private tours of Edinburgh and Scotland. With your time in Scotland we will show you the best views, locations and landmarks. All while providing historical background of Scotland and making each trip individual.

Every tour we operate is unique. From a Day Trip from Edinburgh to an Outlander Experience Tour or to a Multi-Day Tour of Scotland . Each experience is different, however we guarantee to make your trip memorable.

Our private premium service includes knowledgable local tour guide, bottled water and hotel pick up and drop off.

Make sure to check our gallery to see more of what we do! We look forward to taking you on a tour with us soon.

Private Tours of Scotland

Day Tours From Edinburgh

Edinburgh Walking Tours

Outlander Locations Tours

Day Tours From Inverness

Provided by our sister company Hidden Scotland

Shore Excursions

Multi-Day Tours of Scotland

Build your own customised tour of scotland with us., let us help you plan your trip of a lifetime. we can help plan your tour, recommend accommodation and more. email us today..

Where to Find Us

• Skip to main content
• Skip to footer

edinburghtouristguides.com

Professional guides for Edinburgh

Explore Edinburgh with a Blue Badge guide!

A visit to the Scottish capital will undoubtedly be a highlight of your trip to Scotland, and who better to show you around than a local, knowledgeable Blue Badge guide!  Discover the dark alleyways of the Old Town , the Georgian splendour of the New Town or even go a bit further afield to explore the spectacular coastline and surrounding countryside with a qualified, professional tour guide on hand to share the stories, legends and customs of this beautiful part of the world.

Qualified Tourist Guides

Enjoy a bespoke tour tailored to your requirements and interests. Learn more about the different types of tour we can provide here .

When it comes to Edinburgh, we are the professionals!

Established over 60 years ago, the Scottish Tourist Guides Association has over 200 members based in and around Edinburgh.

All our guides are fully trained, qualified, and experienced.

We offer tours in 19 different languages.

Awarded by the Scottish Tourist Guides Association, the ‘Blue Badge’ is a symbol of excellence in tourist guiding.

We are Scotland’s ONLY body of Accredited National Tourist Guides

Established over 60 years ago, we are recommended by the Scottish Government and VisitScotland

Discover Edinburgh’s best kept secrets with a Blue Badge guide! Our guides are knowledgeable, informative and entertaining, and will help you make the most of your visit to Edinburgh.

Look out for our Blue Badge

Whilst each of us has our own unique guiding style, interests, and areas of expertise, we are united by our passion for Scotland’s capital city and our desire to share it with you. Look for our Blue Badge – the mark of excellence in tourist guiding around the globe. We are the only ones to hold it in Scotland.

A warm welcome to visitors to Edinburgh!

Latest News

Love on the Royal Mile

February 9, 2022

A team of STGA Blue Badge guides are offering walking tours with a difference this Valentine's Day! … [Read More...] about Love on the Royal Mile

Tall Tales Returns for Doors Open Day

September 16, 2021

Sat 26th Sep: in person walking tour Sun 27th Sep: virtual tour Enjoy amazing stories behind … [Read More...] about Tall Tales Returns for Doors Open Day

The Pentland Hills – A Favourite Walk

September 6, 2021

Susan Napier, Blue Badge Guide, takes us on a scenic walk through the Pentland Hills just outside … [Read More...] about The Pentland Hills – A Favourite Walk

[email protected]

Call us; +44 (0) 7590 026 077.

Discover Scotland's history on our award-winning Edinburgh tours  

~ Local Edinburgh guide            ~ Travellers' Choice 2023 winner        ~ 99% of reviews are 'Excellent'

As of 16/11/2023,  350 of our 355 Tripadvisor reviews awarded us five-stars! 

Our recommended private tour of edinburgh.

Private New Town and Old Town tour 

Discover the history of Edinburgh's UNESCO World Heritage Site on this five-star rated three-hour private tour.  Start in the magnificent Georgian New Town, get some of the best views in the city (be sure to charge up your camera phone!), discover the history of the incredible Royal Mile, and let our award-winning Edinburgh tour guide take you into picturesque closes and wynds often missed by most visitors.

Top tip; the High Street and Lawnmarket sections of the Royal Mile can be very busy in July and August.  During those months, we highly recommend this tour because you'll spend more time in some of the quieter but equally fascinating parts of the historic Old Town. 

Prices start from £90

Your private tour starts at 10 am or 2 pm

5-star rated tour on Tripadvisor and Viator

"Local knowledge meant that on my tour I was shown the nooks and crannies, the hidden gems and the photo opportunities that I had expressed an interest in. 10 out of 10! What a great time, the perfect mix of fact and story telling and worth every penny and more!"  Cheryl C, Tripadvisor, October, 2022

Choose from our range of Edinburgh tours

Private Old Edinburgh tour

Get an intimate understanding of Edinburgh's world-famous  Old Town .   Learn about some of our most important buildings and explore evocative historic side streets, courtyards, and Greyfriars Kirkyard.  Your Edinburgh tour guide will use incredible archive images to help you imagine the capital as it was centuries ago!

Prices start from £85 for a private tour for one person

5-star rated tour on Tripadvisor

Viator Badge of Excellence winning tour

Private Royal Mile tour

Explore Scotland's most historic street on this  Royal Mile tour .  Visit picturesque little closes which most visitors miss and walk in the very places where so much of Scotland's history happened.  

Top tip: we recommend this tour during July and August.  You'll spend more time in the less crowded parts of the Royal Mile than on our Private Old Edinburgh tour.

Private Greyfriars Kirkyard tour

Our award-winning  Greyfriars Kirkyard tour  is perfect for anyone who wants to explore one of the world’s most famous burial grounds.  Learn about bodysnatchers, murderers, tortured lords, executed Covenanters and our famous wee dog.

Prices start from £70 for a private tour for one person

Bespoke tours for larger groups

Want a tailor-made Edinburgh tour?  We LOVE planning tours to suit larger groups.  We can offer tours to cover areas of interest and specific start/finish locations, and we can put together a tour for the time you have available. So please email us, and let's start planning your Edinburgh experience!  ​

Edinburgh tours for primary schools

Take your learning outdoors and into old Edinburgh!

We believe there's no better way to learn about old Edinburgh than to be IN the Old Town.   Our tours for Edinburgh schools have been expertly designed by our tour guide, a primary teacher with over 25 years of experience as a primary teacher.  Your learners will hear stories, see sights, and use archive maps, images, and documents.  We currently offer activity tours on Castles, Old Edinburgh, Mary, Queen of Scots, Bonnie Prince Charlie and the Jacobites, and also a tour which focuses on life for Edinburgh's poorest Victorians.  

£3 per pupil (some tours add an additional 50p payment to City of Edinburgh Council for the use of Greyfriars Kirkyard.

Led by a qualified teacher with PVG certification.

"The tour lasted for two hours but the time flew by with Mr Howie telling tales of old and providing the children (32 of them!) with a selection of primary and secondary sources so they could be the history detectives and investigate dark goings on with torture, body snatchers, ‘rubbish’ walls, explosions, Royal visits and quite a bit about poo too. I cannot recommend this tour highly enough for any educator studying the local history of this city with children at first or second level (ks1 and ks2). Reliable and unreliable sources? Check! Primary and secondary sources? Check! Compare and contrast society then and now? Check! Interpret historical evidence? Check! The tour that really does tick all the boxes. And it’s fun too!"  MsFMorse, Tripadvisor, March, 2022

What our guests are saying

Excellent attention to detail and helpful access.

I am a wheelchair user and my travel agent booked this tour because she knew I was a history buff. My experience with Robert I think started almost immediately. He started communicating with me via Viator and asking what I needed in terms of access and what interested me so that he could tailor the tour to my needs. We met at the hotel and he had a rough route planned out. He tweaked this slightly according to our needs. The end result was an informative and fun tour which we very much enjoyed. I don’t feel as if I missed out on anything and was very happy with our tour. 

Tripadvisor review by Kirsty T  - August, 2023

BEST Tour Ever!

Our private tour of Old Edinburgh with Robert Howie was AMAZING! Best tour each of us has ever been on. Robert was engaging, knowledgeable, funny, and tailored the tour to our interests. We were hanging on his every word and didn't want the tour to end. So glad we saw Old Edinburgh this way. Thank you Robert!

Tripadvisor review by Ron H - September, 2023

Please consider leaving us a review

Every review you leave makes a huge difference to our company.  we're a very small company and the edinburgh tours market is incredibly competitive.  we really do appreciate your kindness in leaving a review on either tripadvisor or google.    please, a small plea from us; if you're thinking of booking a tour with us, please book directly on this website .  a direct booking with us (rather than on tripadvisor, allows us to use greater flexibility with any requests you may have and you have all the security and benefits you'd have if you booked through a third-party..

News from us

As seen on national TV!

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to footer

Edinburgh Unwrapped

Edinburgh Walking Tours

Take a guided Edinburgh walking tour to discover the city's history, stories and hidden gems.

Outlander Private Walking Tour - walk in Jamie and Claire's footsteps to follow their story and discover life in 18th century Edinburgh.

Walking Tours of Edinburgh & Self Drive Tours of Scotland

Enjoy a private guided walking tour of Edinburgh with Elspeth, a friendly, qualified and experienced local Scottish guide. Your tour of Edinburgh is specially designed and created just for you. This means you’ll have a unique guided walk, which will fit in with the time you have available, and your own personal interests.

Alternatively, scheduled public small-group tours are also available to join. These group tours follow a set route to see key locations, historic highlights and hidden gems.

If you’re not sure what you want – don’t worry I’m here to help and advise you. You’ll find that a walking tour is the best possible way to see the historic city centre. Whatever type of walking tour of Edinburgh you decide to take, my aim is to make it a truly unforgettable experience. Together we’ll explore places you might have easily passed by. During your Edinburgh walking tour we’ll uncover the stories, rich history and fascinating facts about the city, its people and its buildings.

About Your Edinburgh Tour Guide

Your Edinburgh walking tour will be guided by me, Elspeth McLean, the founder of Edinburgh Unwrapped. I’m a professional tour guide who has been connected with Edinburgh nearly all my life. So this gives me a real insight into Edinburgh’s culture and history. I’m also an accredited member of the Highlands of Scotland Tour Guide Association. As a result, you can trust that even my most incredible stories of Edinburgh’s colourful characters and historic past are authentic and true. During your walking tour I’ll share my enthusiasm and knowledge of Scotland and Edinburgh in a fun and informative way. Along our route you’ll find out about our local history, culture, legends and secrets. Find out more about Elspeth…

Self-Drive Tours of Scotland

If you’d like to discover more of Scotland, we also offer tailored self-drive tours. You can expect the same level of individual attention to create your ideal Scottish holiday planned just for you. Find out more on our Tailored Self-Drive Tours Page.

Featured Tours

The Royal Mile Stories & Secrets Small Group Walking Tour

This small group walking tour will follow the route of the ancient Royal Mile. Discover its unique history, stories of its colourful characters and its hidden secrets.

A Tale of Two Cities Private Tour

Highlights and hidden gems of the Old Town and New Town. Discover the best of both worlds & the two different sides of Edinburgh's split personality.

Outlander Private Walking Tour

Come with me as we follow in the footsteps of Jamie and Claire, immersing ourselves in the atmosphere and history of 18th century Edinburgh.

Customised Edinburgh Tours

Unique tailored tours created just for you because one size does not fit all.

Latest Posts

11 Top Insider Tips to Get the Best out of your Trip to Edinburgh

30th June 2022

Make sure you get the best out of your trip to Edinburgh, whatever time of year you come. Here are some of my insider tips to help you plan and make the most of your city break.

Two of Edinburgh’s Most Popular Historic Stories

28th February 2022

This year we are celebrating Scotland’s ‘Year of Stories’. What better place to discover historic myths and legends than on a tour in Edinburgh? Find out two of Edinburgh’s most popular historic stories.

The Edinburgh Clock That’s Always Wrong

30th October 2021

Tomorrow morning the clocks go back, so we’ll all have an extra hour in bed. There is one clock however you might not want to set your watch by if you’re in Edinburgh. Traditionally the large clock on the tower of the Balmoral Hotel is (nearly) always 3 minutes fast. Find out why.

What our customers say

Elspeth’s stories were so interesting and funny and I experienced for the first time in my life how enjoyable sightseeing can be. It was very easy to follow Elspeth and I really liked her knowledge and charisma. She had the perfect mix of information and stories about people’s lives that we found interesting.

I can’t recommend Elspeth enough. She’s a true Scottish treasure and I am looking forward to her next tour! She opened our eyes to the many layers of hidden history within the beautiful city of Edinburgh and we didn’t want each day to end. There’s so much to see in and around Edinburgh that each tour is different yet equally as captivating as the last.

Elspeth’s tour is so great, I learned a lot and I will miss my slice of Edinburgh life. Edinburgh is an amazing and fantastic city and I will recommend to anyone who would like to learn about the city in such a friendly environment with Elspeth. Especially people who are really into Harry Potter or studying literature or history.

[email protected]

42A Saughton Crescent Edinburgh EH12 5SH

We are an Edinburgh Tour company offering private and group walking tours of Edinburgh. We also plan amazing self-drive tours of Scotland tailored for you.

Privacy Overview

THE 10 BEST Edinburgh Tours & Excursions

Edinburgh tours.

• Cultural Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Multi-day Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Traditional)
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Loch Ness, Scottish Highlands, Glencoe and Pitlochry Tour

2. Loch Ness and Highlands Day Tour Including Cruise from Edinburgh

3. Edinburgh Castle: Guided Walking Tour with Entry Ticket

4. Underground Vaults Walking Tour in Edinburgh Old Town

5. Edinburgh Food & Drink Tour with Eat Walk Tours

6. Loch Ness and the Scottish Highlands Day Tour from Edinburgh

7. Guided Edinburgh Private Walking Tour

8. St Andrews & the Fishing Villages of Fife Small-Group Day Tour from Edinburgh

9. The World Famous Underground Ghost Tour

10. Isle of Skye, Highlands and Loch Ness 3-Day Tour from Edinburgh

11. Theatrical Tour in Spanish New City Edinburgh

12. City Sightseeing Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

13. Skip-the-Line Edinburgh Castle Walking Tour

14. Edinburgh Darkside Walking Tour: Mysteries, Murder and Legends

15. Full-Day Tour: Sands and Castles of East Lothian From Edinburgh

16. Glenfinnan Viaduct, Glencoe and Fort William Tour from Edinburgh

17. Scottish Highlands, Loch Ness and Glen Coe Day Trip from Edinburgh

18. Edinburgh Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

19. Loch Lomond, Kelpies & Stirling Castle Tour Including Admission

20. Original Harry Potter Locations Tour in Edinburgh

21. Royal Mile Guided Walking Tour in Edinburgh

22. Outlander Locations Tour Including Admissions from Edinburgh

23. Royal Edinburgh Ticket - Hop-On Hop-Off and Attraction Admissions

24. Edinburgh Castle Guided Walking Tour in English

25. 3-Day Isle of Skye Inverness Highlands and Glenfinnan Viaduct Tour from Edinburgh

26. Full-Day Trip: Loch Ness, Glencoe & The Highlands from Edinburgh

27. 3-Day Isle of Skye and Scottish Highlands Small-Group Tour from Edinburgh

28. Hadrian's Wall & The Borders Tour from Edinburgh Incl. Admission

29. Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and the Kelpies Tour from Edinburgh

30. Edinburgh Castle Guided Tour - Tickets Included

What travelers are saying.

• Underground Walking Tour in Edinburgh
• The World Famous Underground Ghost Tour
• Edinburgh Castle: Guided Walking Tour with Entry Ticket
• Loch Ness, Scottish Highlands, Glencoe & Pitlochry Tour from Edinburgh
• City Sightseeing Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
• The Potter Trail
• The Mountebank Comedy Tour of Edinburgh
• See Your City
• Little Fish Tours
• Cadies & Witchery Tours
• Invisible Edinburgh Tours
• Viajar Por Escocia Tours en Espanol
• Edinburgh Guided Tour
• Soul of Scotland Tours
• Edinburgh Expert Walking Tours
• Iconic Tours
• Silent Adventures
• Mercat Tours
• Auld Reekie Tours
• Little Scottish Treasures
• Heartland Travel - Day Tours
• Edinburgh Run Tours

15 Best Tours in Edinburgh [2024]

Boasting a UNESCO World Heritage site, one of the most iconic castles on earth, elegant Georgian architecture and much more, the Scottish capital surely belongs on everyone’s bucket list. If you want to discover this enchanting city, then booking the best tours in Edinburgh is an easy and enjoyable way to do exactly that. 

This guide to the best Edinburgh tours is here to help you choose which tours you should take. From foodie or whisky tasting experiences to spooky, Harry Potter and hop-on hop-off tours, there really is so much scope in this stunning city. 

Edinburgh Castle Tour: Fast-Track Guided Tour in English

Rating: 5⭐ | Price: $$ | Duration: 1.5 hours

Booking an Edinburgh castle tour can really help you make the most of visiting this famous location. I t also includes skip-the-line entry to save you precious time . 

The experience commences with a walk up the Royal Mile, before taking your guided tour of the famous fortress. This includes explanations of the castle dungeons, the iconic one o’clock gun salute and the Argyle Battery. 

→ Click here to check prices and availability

Edinburgh: Underground Vaults Tour

Rating: 4.5⭐| Price: $ | Duration: 1 hour

If the best underground tour in Edinburgh is what you want to find, check out this spooky tour of the city’s ancient underground vaults. It’s said that ghosts lurk here beneath the Old Town, and during the one hour tour your guide will regale you with gory tales about witchcraft and historic murders in the area.

Exploring the South Bridge vaults puts an entirely new spin on things, so don’t miss this if you want to see a different side to this elegant city!

Edinburgh: The Dark Side Walking Tour

Rating: 5⭐ | Price: $ | Duration: 2 hours

Another of the more quirky Edinburgh tours is this Dark Side walking tour. Expect to hear all about Burke and Hare, the city’s most notorious murderers, as well as the trials and even burnings that witches once endured. The practices of grave robbing and body snatching, plus stories of real life vampires and cannibals, are also discussed.

Sites visited during the tour include narrow, twisting alleyways, Calton Hill, the Old Calton Burial Ground, one of Edinburgh’s chilling cemeteries or Canongate Kirkyard cemetery. The tour finishes at a local pub near the Royal Mile where you can purchase a beverage to steady your nerves!

Edinburgh: Comedy Horror Ghost Bus Tour

Rating: 4.5⭐ | Price: $ | Duration: 1 hour

If all that after-dark activity sounds a little too gruesome for your tastes, then the best ghost tour in Edinburgh to book might be a more light-hearted comedy horror trip. Your conductor will share tales of ghosts, murder, grave robbings and victims of the plague as you ride around town.

The tour takes you through both the ancient Old Town and the Georgian New Town. It all takes place aboard a restored and black-painted vintage double decker bus. This was the sole survivor of the Necropolis Bus Company fleet, following a rather mysterious 1967 fire. This is a fun, light-hearted tour and a perfect option if you’re travelling with teenagers!

Edinburgh: Old Town History and Tales Walking Tour

Rating: 4.8⭐ | Price: $ | Duration: 2 hours

This highly rated city tour of Edinburgh allows you to truly explore a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the safe hands of your knowledgeable tour guide, you’ll stroll along the twisting streets of the historic Old Town.

Expect to be enjoyably entertained throughout this tour, as your guide shares all the stories you’ll want to hear about the Scottish capital. Sights to see include the old pubs of Grassmarket, places that inspired J. K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series, St. Giles Cathedral and more. 

Original Harry Potter Locations Tour

Rating: 5⭐ | Price: $$ | Duration: 2 hours

Should you be seeking fun Edinburgh tours for the whole family, this Harry Potter locations tour could be spot-on. As well as sites associated with the books and movies about the boy wizard, you’ll also visit key Edinburgh landmarks such as Princes Street, the Old Town and the castle.

J. K. Rowling wrote much of the books in Edinburgh, and during the tour you’ll see sights that inspired her works. These include the Castlehill graveyard that doubles as Voldemort’s final resting place, and winding lanes that Diagon Alley was based on. 

Edinburgh: JK Rowling’s Edinburgh & the Writing of Harry Potter

Rating: 5⭐ | Price: $$ | Duration: 4.25 hours

Another contender as best walking tour in Edinburgh for a Harry Potter fan is this magical guided tour with Sam. Discover the many Edinburgh locations that inspired JK Rowling. You’ll also get the chance to find out which Hogwarts house you’d be placed in. As well as whether you’re a muggle, a squib or a pure-blood witch or wizard. 

It’s worth noting that this is a long tour lasting over 4 hours so if you’re short on time or prefer a shorter walking tour, check out the other Harry Potter tour listed above.

Edinburgh: Comedy Walking Tour with Professional Comedian

Rating: 4.9⭐ | Price: $ | Duration: 2 hours

This walking tour led by a professional comedian has to be among the most entertaining tours in Edinburgh. Setting out from the Monkey Barrel Comedy Club in the Old Town, you’ll learn all sorts of fun local facts and trivia during the two hour walk.

Expect some swearing, adult humour and a strong Scottish accent from your guide, which is why this tour is intended for over-16s only. If you want to know why the gun salute takes place every day at one o’clock or other city facts, this could be your chance to find out. This recent review says it all:

“BEST SIGHTSEEING TOUR EVER! Seriously guys, if you’re thinking about booking any of the walking tours through Edinburgh, THIS ONE is the one to go for! Daniel is not only incredibly funny, but also really knows his Scottish History!”

Edinburgh: 24-Hour Family-Friendly Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

Rating: 4.5⭐ | Price: $ | Validity: 1 day

As with many cities across the world, some of the best tours of Edinburgh are jump-on, jump-off bus tours where you can travel when you please. This one is especially family friendly, and tickets are valid for 24 hours. 

With stunning city views throughout, this tour allows you to see places like the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, Grassmarket, the New Town, Castle Rock and the Palace of Holyroodhouse. You can hop off whenever you like to explore further, before boarding another bus to take you somewhere else. 

Edinburgh: Royal Attractions with Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours

Rating: 4.8⭐ | Price: $$ | Validity: 2 days

Royal Edinburgh is the focus for this hop-on, hop-off bus tour. Tickets include three fast-track entrance tickets for the Royal Yacht Britannia, the Palace of Holyroodhouse and Edinburgh Castle as well as flexible transport for up to 48 hours.

To simplify things even further, your pass includes use of buses operated by three different hop-on-hop-off bus tour companies. These are Edinburgh Tour, Majestic Tour and Edinburgh City Sightseeing.

Edinburgh: The Scotch Whisky Experience Tour and Tasting

You simply cannot come to Edinburgh as an adult without sampling the famous Scottish tipple! This whisky tasting and tour allows you to do exactly that. Your guide will also teach you about the five Scottish whisky-making regions. 

Comprising close to 3,500 bottles, one of the largest whisky collections on the planet also forms part of this tour. Single malt and blended whisky tastings are also included, and you’ll also get a crystal tasting glass to keep as a souvenir. 

Edinburgh: Whisky Tasting with History and Storytelling

Another option for whisky lovers! If you’re looking for something to do in Edinburgh during the evening, how about this whisky tasting experience? It includes local history and folklore tales, so you can learn about the city while sipping for single malts.

The tour takes place on the atmospheric Royal Mile, after meeting your guide at the aptly-named Hot Toddy. With the whole of the first floor reserved for your group, there’s plenty of space to stretch out in while learning about Scottish whisky production. You’ll also sample four distinctive single malts from different distilling regions of Scotland. You can also choose to do the tour with no drinks included.

Edinburgh: 3-Hour Guided Secret Food Tour

Rating: 4.8⭐ | Price: $$ | Duration: 3 hours

Whether you’re searching for unusual tours in Edinburgh because you’re a second-time visitor or because you really like to get under the skin of a city, this secret food tour can tick that box. Lasting for three hours, you’ll make half a dozen stops to sample Scottish delicacies.

Food and drinks to taste during the tour include haggis, neeps and tatties (mashed swede and potatoes), local cheeses, scones with butter and jam, gin and of course single malt whisky. The secret dish might also tickle your tastebuds. 

Edinburgh: Silent Disco Adventure Tour

Rating: 5⭐ | Price: $ | Duration: 1 hour

If you want to experience Edinburgh in a truly unique way, then surely this Silent Disco tour is unbeatable! It’s not for shy and retiring types, though, as you’ll need to sing and dance your way through the city streets.

Moving through the historic Scottish capital to hits from several decades, you’ll pass lots of famous landmarks en route. It’s a different way to see the city, that’s for certain. 

Edinburgh: Chocolatarium Tour, Tasting & Chocolate Making

Rating: 5⭐ | Price: $ | Duration: 1.5 hours

A tour of Edinburgh’s Chocolatarium also provides visitors with something different to do while visiting the city. During the 90 minute experience you’ll discover how chocolate is produced, from South American cacao plantations to the finished bars available from Scottish chocolate makers.

You can even make your own chocolates, including the flavours of your choice, as part of the tour. Sampling Scottish and global chocolates is also included, with options ranging from chilli to whisky. I took my daughter here for something a little quirky to do together and we had such a fantastic time!

Whether you prefer the idea of dancing and singing your way through the streets, laughing until your sides split or visiting a Chocolatarium, we hope you’ve enjoyed discovering 15 of the finest Edinburgh city tours!

Similar Posts

Edinburgh’s Top Instagrammable Places

10 Free Museums & Art Galleries in Edinburgh

25+ Awesome Things to do in Edinburgh with Teenagers [2024]

Don’t Miss The Magical Christmas Light Trail at the Botanics in Edinburgh! [2023]

Top Things to do in East Lothian

Edinburgh’s Quirky & Unique Bars [+map]

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Edinburgh Tour Guide

Customised tours of edinburgh and scotland.

Tours of Edinburgh and Scotland!

Have you ever been frustrated when on holiday in a new place? Have you watched your holiday slip away while you tried to find your way around? Edinburgh Tour Guide is the answer.

Edinburgh is noted as being a friendly and welcoming place. All the same, the average citizen of any city will know little of the things that visitors want to know. They may know still less about the rest of the country. You have worked hard for your holiday and you deserve it to go well.

• Most Popular

Experience Edinburgh Tour

Discover what to see and do in Edinburgh on our Experience Edinburgh tour. Given a full day, our guides will have you fall in love with our enchanting city. Book now!

• Users Up to 30 people
• Checkmark Walking tour
• Hour Glass 8 hours

Check Out Our Tours

Public tours.

Learn More »

Private Tours

Custom tours, meet our guides.

Bill has over 40 years experience of entertaining the public. He has written some of the funniest songs to have come out of Scotland. Read more!

Cammy Goodall

Cammy is not any old guide! He continues to surprise with his ability to make amazing memories. Read more!

Su has a passion for Glasgow and she longs to share it with you. Read more!

People Love Exploring Edinburgh with Us

Friends and I recently spent the day with Cameron on a full day walking tour of Edinburgh. He is such a delightful guide and our time was a special time for us. We had very limited time in Edinburgh but we left feeling like we had really experienced the best of what Edinburgh had to offer. It was like being with a comfortable friend - we just loved our time with Cameron. His knowledge of poetry and his beautiful singing voice was a special gift.

Bill took a group of ten University of Utah Go Learn travelers through Edinburgh and man, it was exceptional! We asked him to tie Edinburgh a little into our own U.S. history and then countless connections between our two nations blew us away. His knowledge on Edinburgh shined as expected from a guide of his caliber, but then there was so much more. Above all, the kindness and humor Bill possesses made us feel extremely welcome in Scotland and it did set the tone of a two week journey we will never forget! Thank you Bill!

We went on a full day walking tour with Cammy and had an absolutely wonderful experience! My husband and I were fascinated and intrigued by the city and Cammy's vast knowledge of history, the architecture, and the arts. We were spellbound by his poetry and his song. Although we spent the entire day with him, we were never tired and we were sorry to see the day come to an end! The experience was unforgettable and we highly recommend taking this tour with Cammy! It will be the highlight of your Edinburgh trip!

I recommend this company whole heartedly. We had the ability to tour with both Cam and Bill and they did not disappoint. We had a full day tour with Cam to St. Andrews and Rosslyn Chapel. He has such in depth knowledge of Edinburgh history and has the ability to make that history come alive. In addition, he has a wonderful singing voice and sang a poem of Robert Burns. It was a fantastic day. Our half day tour of the town of Edinburg was with Bill and it was equally as good. He as many historical stories to tell which only enriches the tour.

Home » Travel Guides » United Kingdom » Scotland » 15 Best Edinburgh Tours

15 Best Edinburgh Tours

Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland and has been for nearly seven centuries.

Not surprisingly, in many ways, it’s considered the heart of the country and is the premier center for education, arts, literature, and engineering.

If you’re looking to relax on a white-sand beach and sip an umbrella drink, it’s probably not a wise destination choice, but for lovers of history and culture, it’s well worth a visit.

The city attracts more than a million visitors annually from around the world; with so much to see and do, you won’t have trouble filling your itinerary.

Below are 15 of the best tours of Edinburgh.

1. Walking Tour of Historic Old Town

If you like exploring historic icons, getting some fresh air and stretching your legs, this walking tour of the city’s historic Old Town district is a great way to kick off your Edinburgh adventure.

Your guide will lead you to places where buses and taxis can’t go and you’ll get a professional narration about the historical significance of the things you’re seeing.

The tour lasts about 90 minutes and will give first-time visitors a great overview of the city.

Unfortunately, it isn’t open to children younger than five. Remember to dress appropriately, as Scotland is noted for its cool, windy, and often rainy weather.

2. Ghostly Underground Vaults Tour

With a history dating back countless centuries, it’s no wonder that Edinburgh is home to more than a few eerie tales. On this tour of its underground vaults, you’ll learn about them in the creepiest place of all.

The city’s vaults are one of its most popular attractions. This quick 75-minute tour will get you and your companions up close and personal with these macabre relics.

The tours are given during the day because otherwise, it’d be entirely too spooky.

The vault’s history is an amazing slice of Edinburgh; though they started out as storage areas, they became residences in the 17th century for the poorest of the city’s inhabitants.

View Prices & Reviews

3. Loch Ness, Glencoe and Highlands Tour from Edinburgh

Whether you believe in the legend of the Loch Ness Monster or not, this packed combo-tour is an excellent way to combine three of the area’s most popular attractions into one convenient tour.

It’s a full-day excursion which will lead you through some of the country’s most beautiful scenery, and it starts and ends in Edinburgh.

Highlights include the majestic Stirling Castle, perched atop a rocky precipice and the one-time home of much of Scotland’s royalty.

Views of the vast Highland plains, Loch Ness and Loch Linnhe are included, as is a lunch stop in Ft. William where you’ll enjoy some hearty, traditional fare.

4. Skip-the-Line Ticket and Guided Tour of Edinburgh Castle

This Edinburgh Castle ticket and guided tour combo allows guests to skip the lines like VIPs, which can save a lot of time if you’re visiting on a busy day.

The 1 ½ -hour tour includes unrestricted views of the surrounding city from the castle’s heights. Your guide will give you an amazing overview of the castle’s history, much of which is treacherous and bloody.

Despite its age, you’ll hear many accounts of the lives of the people who lived behind the castle walls, from royalty and soldiers to common laborers.

It’s an iconic slice of Scottish history that you won’t want to miss.

5. Harry Potter Walking Tour

Harry Potter is big business and a recognizable icon the world over. For fans of all things Harry, this two-hour walking tour is one that you won’t want to miss.

Author J.K. Rowling purportedly wrote much of the Harry Potter books in Edinburgh, so for those aspiring authors out there, this tour may provide some motivation.

Tour stops include many city sites that inspired the author to create her unforgettable characters and their dwellings.

High Street, Lord Voldemort’s tomb, and Hogwarts School are all included; you’ll learn how Edinburgh’s real history played a role in the story’s themes and setting.

6. 1-Hour Edinburgh Vaults Tour

Edinburgh’s vaults are one of the city’s most eerie sites, and if you’d like to see them in a rather quick tour, then this 60-minute option is perfect.

Along with your guide, you’ll descend below the city streets into this subterranean labyrinth of narrow passageways that in centuries past was the realm of the city’s poorest down-and-outers.

According to local lore, the vaults are haunted; when you hear stories about some of the inhabitants, you’ll believe it.

The candlelight reflecting off the dripping stone walls will drop your blood temperature a degree or two, and the tour’s short length will leave plenty of time for other adventures.

7. Loch Ness and the Highlands with Hotel Pick-Up from Edinburgh

This full-day tour includes pickup and drop-off to and from your Edinburgh hotel and stops at two of the region’s most unforgettable attractions.

Though the tour lasts nearly 12 hours, you’ll get a great value for your hard-earned buck.

The tour includes views of the monument built to commemorate William Wallace’s contribution to Scotland, and Stirling Castle as well.

From there you’ll visit the Highlands, the Pass at Glencoe, Loch Leven and Loch Ness.

Guests will have a chance to relax on the shores of Loch Ness, and stops for coffee and lunch are scheduled as well, though their cost isn’t included.

8. Edinburgh’s Darker Side Walking Tour

If you’re up for meeting the restless souls of some of the city’s most unforgettable long-dead characters, then this fun and spooky walking tour would be a great way to spend a few hours.

Tales of cannibals, grave robbers, unsolved murders, public witch burnings and corpse snatchings are just a few of the somber tales you’ll hear along the way, but be prepared for your fair share of laughs too.

The two-hour tour brings the past to life like few others and is available in English, German and Spanish.

Refreshments are not included, and remember to dress for the weather.

9. Royal Yacht Britannia Ticket and Audio Guide

For much of its life – spanning nearly a half a century – The Royal Yacht Britannia carried the English Royal Family to all corners of the world. Many of the distant lands it visited were part of the country’s vast colonial empire.

The luxurious yacht is now moored in Edinburgh’s Port of Leith.

The cost of admission includes an audio guide available in dozens of languages; it’ll give you a fascinating narration as you stroll among the yacht’s exhibits.

Most of what you’ll see is original, and highlights include the royal bedrooms, sun deck, and the impressive engine room.

There’s a quaint café on board as well if you’d like to stop for some tea, coffee, or a fresh scone.

10. History of Whisky and Sampling Tour

Unless you’ve sworn off drinking, you’d be remiss to forgo a foray into the history of Scotland’s whiskey.

Scotch and Scottish whiskey are famous the world over, and for those interested in sampling some of the divine nectar, learning how it’s made, and understanding just how important it is, this tour is a must.

Tastings at four of the city’s most noted distilleries are included. You’ll learn the finer points of tasting the offerings, each of which has surprisingly unique characteristics that you may not otherwise notice or appreciate.

It’s best not to show up on an empty stomach and is a must for budding whiskey enthusiasts.

11. 4-Hour Pub Crawl with Drinks Specials

Edinburgh comes alive at night with drink-filled revelers of all stripes.

Its pubs, restaurants, and clubs are great places to meet locals and like-minded travelers, and for those up for a four-hour pub crawl, this tour would be a great choice.

Guided by your nightlife savvy local guide, you’ll hit many pubs that are off the beaten path.

From chic and contemporary to grungy and seedy, you’ll hit a sampling of the city’s watering holes and have a great time along the way.

The four hours will fly by, and at many of the stops, you and your companions will get free or reduced priced drinks.

12. Walking Tour of Old Town Breweries with Tastings

Just like whiskey, beer has been a staple of the Scottish diet and culture for centuries.

Many of Edinburgh’s breweries have been brewing for many hundreds of years and are national icons.

This tour kicks off from The Royal Mile. You’ll get a thorough overview of the industry that includes well-kept secret recipes, marketing campaigns, advertising and expansion from local brands to national and international ones.

Your guide will explain the subtle nuances that make each beer unique, and you’ll really gain an appreciation of what makes beer so good.

Tour size is limited to 12 to make sure guests get an intimate experience.

13. Edinburgh Ghost Bus Tour

Part comedy and part ghost tour, this one-hour bus tour of Edinburgh’s dark side is a great way to learn a little history, see some amazing sights, and have a few laughs too.

You and your companions will be conveyed by a refurbished double-decker bus, during which your guide will keep you engaged with a running narration explaining the things you’re seeing.

Tales of murder, mayhem, plague, and executions will be included. The tour hits some of the city’s most noted areas, like Edinburgh Castle, The Royal Mile, and Greyfriars Kirk.

Please note that food and drinks other than water aren’t allowed on the bus.

14. Magical Highlands Tour by Steam Train

For lovers of Harry Potter, this Edinburgh-based tour to the Magical Highlands is one that shouldn’t be missed.

The tour’s mode of transportation is a steam train, which gives it a unique feel that harkens back to a different era.

You’ll pass a few of the locations that were used when filming the movies, and you’ll get glimpses of Rannoch Moor, Fort William, and stop at the West Highland Railway Museum as well.

It’s a long tour at 13 hours, but it’ll probably be one of your vacation standouts.

Gratuities, lunch, and transportation to and from your hotel aren’t included.

15. Full-Day Scottish Highlands Tour

Scotland’s Highlands are some of the most expansive, lush, and green swatches of fields, forests, glens and rivers that you’re ever likely to see.

They are one of the country’s national treasures and home to Stirling Castle and the William Wallace Monument.

A stop at The Trossachs National Park is included as well, which is the former home of one of the country’s most famous and romanticized cattle thieves – Rob Roy.

Visits to a local loch, whiskey distillery, and majestic cathedral are also featured.

The tour usually lasts about nine hours; food and drink aren’t included.

15 Best Edinburgh Tours:

• Walking Tour of Historic Old Town
• Ghostly Underground Vaults Tour
• Loch Ness, Glencoe and Highlands Tour from Edinburgh
• Skip-the-Line Ticket and Guided Tour of Edinburgh Castle
• Harry Potter Walking Tour
• 1-Hour Edinburgh Vaults Tour
• Loch Ness and the Highlands with Hotel Pick-Up from Edinburgh
• Edinburgh’s Darker Side Walking Tour
• Royal Yacht Britannia Ticket and Audio Guide
• History of Whisky and Sampling Tour
• 4-Hour Pub Crawl with Drinks Specials
• Walking Tour of Old Town Breweries with Tastings
• Edinburgh Ghost Bus Tour
• Magical Highlands Tour by Steam Train
• Full-Day Scottish Highlands Tour

30 Epic Things to Do in Edinburgh: Ultimate Guide by a Local

Shrouded in myths and legends and steeped in thousands of years of history, Edinburgh is a city like no other.

With an electric mix of architecture, winding cobbled streets, atmospheric alleyways, diverse festivals, plenty of green spaces and one of the best castles in Scotland – It’s hard to beat Edinburgh’s charm. Nearly every type of traveller will find something in this Scottish city to marvel at.

It’s been our home for almost a decade now, and we are so excited to share our favourite experiences and places to help you curate your journey.

Even if the sun doesn’t shine every day, Edinburgh is so incredibly stunning that “it breaks the heart again and again.”

It’s not surprising that in 1995, The Old and New Town of Edinburgh was recognised in UNESCO’s list of World Heritage sites.

From Harry Potter writer J. K. Rowling to Irvine Welsh, Robert Louis Stevenson to Sir Walter Scott – this Scottish capital city has inspired many creative geniuses.

So, whether you have only a day or a week, this guide will help you pull together a fantastic itinerary of Edinburgh. Also, there are some great day trip options within easy reach.

We have covered much of what this city has to offer to first-time visitors, as well as some ideas to explore a little further in pursuit of different experiences for returning visitors.

Best things to do in Edinburgh

1. soak up the panoramic views from calton hill.

Located only a few metres off the east end of the busy Princes Street, Calton Hill is a public park housing several Greek-style historical monuments and landmarks. It is one of the best places in Edinburgh to get an interrupted panoramic view of the city’s dramatic skyline.

At the top, you will find the upside-down telescope-shaped Nelson Monument. You can climb 143 steps to reach a viewing platform at the top to admire some of the best views of Edinburgh.

Another historic attraction on Calton Hill is the columned structure of the National Monument of Scotland. The construction of this 19th-century landmark remained unfinished due to lack of funds at that time and hence earned the nickname ‘Edinburgh’s Disgrace’.

We will highly recommend visiting Calton Hill at sunset. It takes only 5-10 minutes to reach the top through the steps on Regent Road. It is open to visitors every day, all year round.

Find Out the Best Viewpoints and Attractions on Calton Hill

2. Explore the Turbulent History of Edinburgh Castle

Sitting at the top of the historic Royal Mile, this magnificent fortress is a prominent part of the city’s iconic skyline. Steeped in over nine hundred years of history, its dramatic setting on an extinct volcanic plug provides a stunning view over the city.

The oldest surviving structure of Edinburgh Castle is the St. Margaret’s Chapel. It was built in the early 12th century by King David I. He named this small chapel after his beloved mother, Queen Margaret. However, historians believe that the origins of the fortress and the geological features of this area are much older.

Read More: 25 Most Beautiful Castles in Scotland You Must Visit

Edinburgh Castle has a chequered past. For many years, this was the home of Scottish kings and queens of Scotland, then it was turned into a mighty military fortress and later served as a prison. The control of the castle changed hands numerous times throughout history.

We would suggest spending at least two hours to explore all the hidden corners of the castle.

Visitors can see the famous Honours of Scotland, the Stone of Destiny, Mons Meg, the Royal Palace, the Great Hall, St Margaret’s Chapel, and the One O’Clock Gun. Follow our extensive guide to visiting Edinburgh Castle .

Tickets: Admission fees up to and including 31st March costs £18 online and £21 walk-up for adults.

From 1st April onwards, it costs £19.50 online and £22 walk-up for adults.

3. Step Back in Time in the Historic Royal Mile

A meander along the historic Royal Mile is an unmissable part of sightseeing in Edinburgh. The street is actually longer than a mile. The term ‘Royal Mile’ refers to a Scots mile – an old Scottish measuring unit which became obsolete in the 18th century.

The Royal Mile is one of the oldest thoroughfares in the city. It runs from the historic castle to the Holyrood Palace.

This iconic street is lined with various famous city landmarks, souvenir shops, museums, traditional pubs and restaurants. During Edinburgh Festival in August, this area comes alive with entertaining street performances.

Some of the historical highlights of Royal Mile are the Scottish Parliament Building, St Giles’ Cathedral, The Real Mary King’s Close, John Knox House and the Museum of Edinburgh .

Also, watch out for the narrow alleyways known as closes in Scotland. Advocates Close, Anchor Close and White Horse Close are particularly very photogenic.

Read More: Detailed Guide to Edinburgh Castle

4. Take in Breathtaking Views from Arthur’s Seat

Created by volcanic activity 335 million years ago, Arthur’s Seat is one of the most popular sites in Edinburgh to watch the sunset. Watching the Sun gradually disappear behind the horizon is an absolute treat.

Sitting at the edge of the historic Royal Mile, right next to the Holyrood Palace, the Holyrood Park spreads across a vast area of 650 acres. The highest point of the park is Arthur’s Seat at 251 metres.

Read More: Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting Arthur’s Seat

There are numerous walking trails all around this park. The hike to Arthur’s Seat is moderately easy and well worth the effort to see the breathtaking view over the sprawling cityscapes of Edinburgh and beyond.

It takes around 1 -1.5 hours to climb the summit, depending on your pace and fitness level. Alternatively, the jagged cliffs of Salisbury Crags are also an excellent vantage point to admire the epic skyline of Edinburgh.

If you are a keen walker, you might be interested in taking a peaceful stroll around Duddingston Loch, Dunsapie Loch and St Margaret’s Loch – home to many wildlife and birds.

5. Unleash Your Inner Harry Potter in Victoria Street and Grassmarket

Frequently referred to as the fictional Diagon Alley of Edinburgh, Victoria Street is one of the most photographed streets in the city. It is like a magic alleyway that will make you disappear from the historic Grassmarket and pop you out at the iconic Royal Mile. The Colourful stretch of old Flemish-styled buildings with arch-shaped facades is bound to cast a spell.

Grassmarket is one of the most vibrant and liveliest places in the Old Town. In past centuries, public hangings used to take place here.

Read More: A Short Guide to Victoria Street

Grassmarket has some of the oldest pubs in Edinburgh. One of them is the White Hart Inn, a 500-year-old pub where many famous people spent the night, including William Wordsworth and Robert Burns. It was also frequented by the notorious body snatchers of the 18th century, Burke and Hare.

Nowadays, Grassmarket is home to many events, including the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Also, you can visit the farmer’s market on Saturdays.

6. Explore the Prettiest Corners of Dean Village

Nestled in a deep valley on the Water of Leith, Dean Village is only a few minutes away from the busy Edinburgh city centre. This picturesque neighbourhood stands out for its colourful half-timbered houses, medieval cobbled streets and idyllic riverside settings.

For over 800 years, Dean Village was a bustling site with various thriving industries and mills that used to harness power from the Water of Leith. Look out for the millstones and stone plaques decorated with baked bread and pies on the buildings. Dean Village used to supply milled flour and other grains to the residents of Edinburgh.

One of the most impressive houses here is Well Court. The red sandstone building with its landmark clock tower, conical turrets and crow-stepped gables oozes charm. It was built in the late 19th century for the nearby mill workers.

Follow the riverside path towards Stockbridge to visit St. Bernard’s Well, a hidden gem of Edinburgh. This elegant Roman temple-like structure houses a beautiful statue of Hygieia – the Greek goddess of health.

Read More: Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting Dean Village

7. Discover the Royal History of Palace of Holyroodhouse

The official residence of the British Monarch in Edinburgh, Holyrood Palace is one of the top tourist attractions in the city. This grand palace stands at the east end of the Royal Mile with Arthur’s Seat in the backdrop.

This 16th-century palace was closely associated with Mary, Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie – two prominent royal figures in Scottish history. Visitors can explore the grand interiors and the collections of Flemish and French tapestries in the state apartments. Also, you can see the two thrones commissioned by King George V in 1911 in the Throne room.

Outside the palace, you would find the ruins of the historic Holyrood Abbey, which played a pivotal role in Edinburgh’s history. It was founded in 1128 by King David I.

Stroll around the beautiful garden and search for Queen Mary’s Bathhouse. Also, the adjacent Queen’s gallery is worth a visit. It displays paintings, furniture and photographs from the Royal collection.

Opening Hours : 1 November – 31 March 09.30 am – 16.30 pm.

1 April – 31 October 09.30 am – 18.00 pm.

Ticket Price : Adult advance £18, on the day £19.50.

8. Visit the National Museum of Scotland

Located opposite Greyfriars Kirkyard, the National Museum of Scotland is one of the best kid-friendly attractions in Edinburgh.

It features several exhibitions on natural and ancient history, ancient civilisations, archaeology and the history of Scotland. You can easily spend an hour or two discovering all the impressive collections this museum has to offer.

From ancient Egyptian artefacts to ceramics, cultural diversity to wildlife – you can find everything under one roof. Some highlights include Dolly the Sheep, the millennium clock and Lewis chessmen. Also, the Grand Gallery looks very photogenic.

They regularly host several events, including guided tours, workshops and temporary exhibitions.

Don’t forget to visit the rooftop of the museum. It is free and provides a stunning panoramic view over Edinburgh rooftops. If you can’t find it, ask any member of the staff for directions.

Opening Hours : Daily, 10 am – 5 pm.

9. Enjoy Romantic Strolls in Circus Lane and Stockbridge

Travellers visit Circus Lane to admire the vibrant floral displays, cute Georgian mews houses, colourful doors and the picturesque settings of the imposing St Stephen’s Church in the background. This cobbled street is a popular spot with local photographers and tourists.

Regarded as the prettiest street in Edinburgh, Circus Lane was originally a back alley built to cater for the horses, carriages and stable servants of wealthy residents of nearby Royal Circus in the 19th century.

Further Reading: Our Detailed Guide to Stockbridge

Circus Lane lies in the bustling neighbourhood of Stockbridge . From indulging in tasty street food in the farmer’s market to feeding the ducks at Inverleith Pond – there are loads of amazing things to do in Stockbridge.

Packed with trendy cocktail bars, cosy cafes, gastro eateries and several independent shops, Stockbridge is famous for its cool bohemian vibe. Also, it is a few minutes away from some of Edinburgh’s open green spaces and art museums.

Further Reading: Our Brief Guide to Circus Lane

10. Marvel at the Priceless Paintings of the Scottish National Gallery

Housed in an elegant 19th-century neoclassical building just off Princes Street, Scottish National Gallery is the leading art gallery in Scotland. It is undoubtedly one of the best free visitors attractions in Edinburgh. You can easily spend an hour or two discovering priceless art.

Established in 1859, it showcases an extensive collection of paintings and sculptures from the early renaissance to the end of the nineteenth century. Here you’ll find many famous masterpieces by legends like Raphael, Van Gogh, Degas, Monet, Velázquez and Vermeer.

Also, there are paintings by several Scottish artists. Look out for Edwin Landseer’s famous painting ‘The Monarch of the Glen’ and Henry Raeburn’s much-loved ‘The Skating Minister’.

The nearby Royal Scottish Academy is also part of the Scottish National Gallery and hosts many temporary exhibitions.

Opening Hours : Open daily, 10 am-5 pm.

11. Test Your Limits and Climb Scott Monument

Standing proudly in East Princes Street Garden, Scott Monument is dedicated to one of Scotland’s most legendary writers, Sir Walter Scott.

This Gothic structure at the heart of Edinburgh is the second-largest monument to a writer, anywhere in the world. A statue of him with his beloved dog, Maida, sits at the base of this memorial.

Constructed in mid 19th century, Scott Monument is a famous landmark in the city and an iconic part of the skyline. The exterior of the tower is adorned with several small statues of Scottish writers and various characters from Scott’s novels.

Do you know you can actually climb Scott Monument? There are viewing platforms at different levels offering gorgeous views of Edinburgh rooftops and the surrounding hills. Inside, you can visit the exhibitions showcasing the life and legacy of Sir Walter Scott. There are 287 steps to climb up to the top. The last few steps are quite steep and narrow.

12. Admire the Interiors of St Giles Cathedral

Founded in 1124, St Giles Cathedral is one of the prominent historic buildings in Edinburgh. It’s technically not a cathedral – rather a church that stands right on the iconic Royal Mile with distinct crown spires, popularly known as lantern towers. The architecture is impressive and worth a visit inside. 

Step inside this medieval building and learn the riveting tale of reformation when John Knox was a priest. They have guided rooftop tours available as well. The view of the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Old Town is stunning from the top.

The highlight of your visit would be the Thistle Chapel, situated at one corner of the church. It has ornated roofs and impressive wood carvings, including coats of arms of the sixteen nights, swords and thistles. Also, don’t miss the large stained glass window above the main entrance depicting the national poet of Scotland, Robert Burns.

13. Be Royalty for a Day at Royal Yacht Britannia

A floating palace moored in Leith, Royal Yacht Britannia is one of the top tourist attractions in Edinburgh. This Royal vessel has sailed one million nautical miles, hosted several State Receptions and dignitaries, and a few Royal honeymoons – she served the Royal Family for over forty years.

Built at the shipyard of John Brown & Co in Clydebank, Scotland, Royal Yacht Britannia was launched by Queen Elizabeth II on 16 April 1953. It sailed her first overseas maiden voyage to the Grand Harbour of Malta in 1954.

Explore the five decks of this ship, the State Apartments, State Drawing Room and the Sun Lounge, which was the Queen’s favourite room here. Also, you can uncover the stories of the crew members and learn about their life at sea. Britannia’s fascinating tale of its epic voyages around the globe to its retirement in Edinburgh will intrigue you.

If you fancy a bite with a stunning view, pop into their onboard restaurant, The Royal Deck Tearoom.

Price : Adult £18.50 and child £9.25.

14. Commune with Nature at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

Just a mile away from the city centre, The Royal Botanic Garden is the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature. Home to some of the extensive collections of living plants and more than 13,500 species, this sprawling 70 acres of green space is one of the best places to walk in Edinburgh.

Founded in 1670, this is one of the oldest gardens in the UK. Enjoy the vast collections of plants at the Chinese Hillside, climb to the highest point of the Garden Rock, follow the Beech Hedge and Herbaceous Border or meander around the large Redwood trees in the Woodland Garden.

Also, there are many vantage points offering fantastic views of Edinburgh’s skyline.

The lovely Victorian Temperate Palm House is a must-visit. Entry to the garden is free except for the glasshouses, which require tickets. During the winter months, Royal Botanics hosts Christmas at the Botanics – a popular family-friendly event.

Opening Hours : Daily, November to January 10 am-4 pm; February and October 10 am – 5 pm; March to September 10 am-6 pm.

15. Get Spooked in Greyfriars Kirkyard

If you are a Harry potter fan, Greyfriars Kirkyard should be a must-visit place in your Edinburgh itinerary.

As you stroll around the graveyard, you will spot the name of some of the beloved Harry Potter Characters. Watch out for the names of Tom Riddle, McGonagall, Mad-eye Moodie, and Potter.

The author J.K. Rowling penned some of the chapters of the Harry Potter series at the nearby Elephant House Cafe.

Another unmissable attraction is the adorable bronze statue of the famous Skye Terrier, Greyfriars Bobby. Tourists often rub its nose for luck.

The story goes that Bobby guarded the grave of his master in Greyfriars Kirkyard for 14 years after his death in 1872. Bobby became very famous in his lifetime, and people from all over Edinburgh used to come to watch and feed him.

Greyfriars Kirkyard is said to be one of the most haunted places in the city.

16. Sit Back with a Picnic at Princes Street Garden

This Scottish city doesn’t have any shortage of open green spaces. But Princes Street Garden at the heart of the city centre is a special one. It is a great place to hang out beneath the imposing Edinburgh Castle and enjoy a picnic.

In summer, you will find the garden teeming with locals and tourists sunbathing and chilling out. During Christmas, this ground transforms into a winter wonderland. In East Princes Street Garden stands Scott Monument, an iconic landmark of Edinburgh. Centrepiece of the westside garden is the beautifully ornate Ross Fountain.

You can also see many statues here. Look out for the Statue of Wojtek, a soldier bear who carried ammunition during World War II.

Also, visit the gingerbread-looking Gardeners Cottage, the former home of the head gardener. Today this dinky house is a popular photo spot in Edinburgh.

Another point of interest is the Floral Clock, the first floral clock in the world, dating back to the early 20th century.

17. Take Some Unforgettable Day Trips from Edinburgh

If you are visiting this city for a little longer, we highly recommend adding a few of the best day trips from Edinburgh to your visit.

Take a day trip to Glasgow , famous for various museums , Victorian and art nouveau architectures, colourful urban mural trail , legendary music scenes and nightlife.

A day tour to visit the incredibly beautiful Loch Lomond is a must. Take a boat cruise and explore Luss , one of the prettiest Scottish villages on the bank of Loch Lomond.

Catch a train from Edinburgh Waverley to the coastal town of St Andrews . Frequently referred to as the home of golf, the Old Course is one of the oldest golf courses in the world.

The picturesque fishing village, St Abbs in the Scottish Borders, has featured in the Avengers the Endgame movie and is worth a visit.

History lovers would love exploring the history of Stirling . The bustling city is full of many historical sights.

18. Enjoy a Taste of Haggis

No visit to Edinburgh is ever complete without tasting the national dish of Scotland, haggis. Love it or hate it, you have to try this famous dish at least once. You never know. Maybe you might turn into a fan of this savoury pudding.

Haggis is typically served with a generous portion of mashed tatties (potatoes) and neeps (turnips) and accompanied by a dram of whiskey.

It tastes like crumbly sausage, with an earthy texture and peppery flavour. It is made by combining sheep’s plucks – chopped liver, heart and lungs with oatmeal, onions, salt and spices and cooked in a sheep’s stomach.

Some of the best places to try haggis in Edinburgh are Arcade Bar Haggis and Whisky House  and Whiski Bar & Restaurant . Other delicious Scottish dishes you might be interested in trying are Cullen Skink, full Scottish breakfast, black pudding and Scotch Pie.

19. Watch a Live Performance at the Edinburgh Festival

August is the most happening month in the city’s calendar. Edinburgh comes alive with an array of festivals and events. More than 2500 performances take place every day in August at various venues around the city.

The Fringe Festival is the largest arts festival in the world. Hundreds of street performers entertain the audience in the Royal Mile, Grassmarket and Princes Street Garden.

Also, you can enjoy several standup comedy shows, ballets, operas, cabaret and musicals by renowned local and international artists. We would strongly recommend seeing the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo , an experience of a lifetime. The jaw-dropping performances of military pipes and drums come alongside traditional Scottish highland dance. Tattoo tickets sell out months in advance.

The month-long festivities end with the annual fireworks display. Thousands of locals and tourists gather at various vantage points to witness this breathtaking display.

20. Uncover Gourmet Delights in Leith

Away from the city centre, Leith is a vibrant and culturally diverse corner of Edinburgh. The Water of Leith flows through the heart of this neighbourhood. It has a rich maritime history and was once an important industrial hub of Scotland.

Today, this area is bustling with trendy shops, hip coffee shops and cosy pubs. From fine dining at Michelin-starred restaurants to delicious street foods, Leith is a must-visit destination for all foodies visiting Edinburgh.

You can find some of the city’s best restaurants in Leith. Some of our favourites are Fishers, Teuchters Landing , Martin Wishart and The Kitchin . Also, the full Scottish breakfast at Roseleaf Bar Cafe is a reason alone to visit Leith.

If you are here on Saturday, head to the farmer’s market for fresh local produces.

21. Explore Underground History at Real Mary King Close

Steeped in history, the Real Mary King Close lies underneath the busy street of the Royal Mile. This family-friendly attraction takes you back in time and tells the unheard stories of the Edinburgh Old Town.

An hour-long guided tour is the only way to explore this historic close and the surrounding maze of narrow alleyways and tenement houses from the 17th century.

It is named after Mary King, a local businesswoman who was a resident of this close. An expert guide will tell you about the life of some of the notable residents who once lived here. Also, you will learn intriguing tales about the deadly plague that ravaged Edinburgh and this close in past centuries.

Over the years, this site has been associated with various folklore, legends and paranormal activities. It was featured in several books and on television as one of the haunted places in the UK.

Price : Adult £21 and child £15.

22. Enjoy Yourself in Edinburgh Christmas Market and Hogmanay

We are perhaps a bit biased, but this city hosts one of the best Christmas markets in Europe. It shines bright with festive spirit at this magical time of the year.

You can find the beautiful Edinburgh Christmas Market in the Princes Street Gardens. There is an array of beautifully decorated chalets selling everything from hot mulled wine to Christmas decorations.

Also, there are plenty of fun rides and activities for all age groups. Younger visitors would love the Christmas Tree Maze, Santa’s Grotto and Nativity Carol Concert. You would love skating at the Alpine ice rink located on George Street.

Hogmanay is an integral part of the Edinburgh Christmas celebration and Scottish tradition. The three-day-long festivity starts with a torchlight procession.

On New Year’s Eve, there are spectacular fireworks displays from the castle . Locals and tourists enjoy themselves at the world-famous Hogmanay Street Party with live music and a delicious selection of street food and drink.

23. Release Your Inner Child at Camera Obscura & World of Illusions 

Camera Obscura and World of Illusions is located at the top of the historic Royal Mile, close to Edinburgh Castle esplanade. If you are not familiar with Camera Obscura, it’s a Latin term for dark chamber and is related to the earliest version of the modern-day camera.

Established in 1835, Camera Obscura is a six-floor building having plenty of entertaining and interactive optical illusions suitable for all age groups. The mindblowing puzzles, mirror maze, and vortex tunnel are thoroughly enjoyable.

The Camera Obscura is still in use and can project the buildings and streets of Edinburgh up and close for visitors. The rooftop terrace offers a superb panoramic view of the sprawling city and the Firth of Forth.

Price : Adult £20.95 and child £16.95.

24. Visit Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art

The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art lies at the West End of Edinburgh. You can also walk here from Dean Village following the Water of Leith pathway. Sitting side by side, there are actually two separate buildings – Modern One and Two.

You will find an extensive collection of modern and contemporary artworks by reputed Scottish and international artists.

There are many interesting outdoor sculptures and art installations on the surrounding ground. The landform by Charles Jencks in front of Modern One looks stunning.

Modern One houses masterpieces by famous artists like Matisse and Picasso. Modern Two hosts various temporary exhibitions all year round. As you enter the building, you will notice a giant 7.3 metre-tall sculpture, Vulcan. Their permanent display includes the recreation of Edinburgh-born artist Eduardo Paolozzi’s studio.

Opening Hours : Open daily, 10 am – 5 pm.

25. Take a Tour of the Scotch Whisky Experience

If you are a whisky enthusiast, a visit to the Scotch Whisky Experience at the top of the Royal Mile will surely interest you. After all, whisky is the national drink of Scotland.

Established in 1988 on the former premise of a school, this visitor attraction in Edinburgh Old Town offers various guided tours to showcase Scotland’s rich history of the whisky industry. It houses the world’s largest collection of whisky bottles. They also have a restaurant and whisky bar on site.

They offer different types of tours. Their expert guide will demonstrate the methods and skills of making scotch whisky. The tour concludes with a wee tasting. Also, you can bring a small bottle back home with you. Audio guides are available in 20 languages. The tour price starts from £21 per adult.

Opening Hours : 10 am – 5 pm.

26. Explore the Scottish National Portrait Gallery

Situated on Queens Street, the Scottish National Portrait Gallery has a superb selection of photographs, sculptures and portraits of some of the most famous Scottish personalities from past and present.

Also, you would be amazed by the glittering friezes and murals of this neo-gothic architectural gem of Edinburgh. The beautifully painted mural at the main entrance hall will surely impress you.

From Mary Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie to Tilda Swinton and Flora Macdonald – You can see all their beautiful portraits here.

This gorgeous red sandstone building was donated in the 19th century by John Ritchie Findlay – the proprietor of The Scotsman newspaper.

It is an amazing free attraction in Edinburgh to spend a rainy day.

Opening Hours : Open daily, 10 am to 5 pm.

27. Discover Writers Museum & Makar’s Court

Located at Lady Stairs close, just a few steps off the Royal Mile, the Writers Museum houses a magnificent collection and memorabilia of three legends of Scottish literature – Robert Burns, Walter Scott and Robert Louis Stevenson.

This picturesque house was built in 1622 by Sir William Gray of Pittendrum, an Edinburgh-based wealthy businessman. Today, the fairy-tale-looking turret draws tourists to this humble museum.

Highlights of your visit would be the first edition of Scott’s Waverley, Burn’s writing desk and a rare cast of his skull, and Robert Louis Stevenson’s personal items. Also, you would get to know a lot about their literary life.

Just outside the Writers Museum lies Makar’s Court, an open space where famous quotes of Scottish writers are etched on flagstones – possibly the most fitting feature to honour Edinburgh, the world’s first UNESCO City of Literature .

Opening Hours : Monday to Saturday, 10 am – 5 pm.

28. Admire the Grand Architecture of the Forth Bridge

An iconic landmark of Scotland, Forth Rail Bridge is an engineering marvel over the Firth of Forth – the estuary of the River Forth.

Located about 10 miles west of Edinburgh City Centre, this bridge connects two villages of Scotland – North and South Queensferry.When this rail bridge was completed in 1890, it was the longest single cantilever bridge in the world. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2015.

There are several sightseeing tour companies that offer guided trips to the Forth Bridges. Alternatively, hop on board Lothian Bus service 43 from Princes Street to South Queensferry. Also, it takes only 15 minutes from Edinburgh Waverley to Dalmeny by train.

If you have time, we recommend you take a boat trip from South Queensferry to the picturesque island of Inchcolm.

29. Enjoy Strolls on the Grounds of Lauriston Castle

Away from the hubbub of the busy city centre, Lauriston Castle is a hidden gem of Edinburgh. The history of this castle dates back to the middle ages. Completely Destroyed during the Earl of Hertford’s raid around 1544, Lauriston Castle was rebuilt in 1590.

Once there, explore the grand interior of this Edwardian tower house. If you hear some eerie footsteps inside, don’t worry. It must be the resident ghost, who hasn’t reportedly harmed anyone yet.

This historic house has lovely grounds with a nice little pond, an award-winning modern Japanese garden, and an Italian garden. Also, you would admire the gorgeous view across Edinburgh and Fife coastline. The woodland around the castle is very scenic, especially in spring, with bluebells lying all around.

Opening Hours : 1 April – 30 September, 8 am – 7.30 pm and 1 October – 31 March, 8 am – 4.30 pm.

Price : £8.00 for adults.

30. Build Sandcastles at Portobello Beach

Just a few miles from Edinburgh City Centre, Portobello is a seaside suburb with a sprawling sand beach stretching over two miles. In summer, it’s a popular spot with sunbathers, swimmers, and volleyballers.

Take a stroll along the charming promenade. It is lined with busy pubs and cafes, chippies, arcades and ice cream shops. Plus, this award-winning beach hosts events like the Big Beach Bush and an annual music and sandcastle competition event. Catch the local bus service 15 or 26 from Princes Street to get here.

So, in short, Portobello would be a perfect spot for a breezy beach day in summer.

How Many Days to Spend in Edinburgh

You will need to spend at least two days visiting some of the main attractions in the city. Check out our detailed 2-day itinerary of Edinburgh . But if you want to explore the city’s nooks and crannies more closely, you can easily spend a week here. You can also add some great day trip destinations to your itinerary. 

But if you are really short on time, it’s possible to see some of the highlights in a day.

Best Time to Visit Edinburgh

Although this capital city is a delight to explore all year round, June to August is the perfect time to explore Edinburgh.

The weather remains relatively dry, pleasant and warm, with longer daylights. Usually, July is the hottest month here. Also, it is an ideal time to enjoy various festivals. But this is also the peak tourist season. So, expect long queues at the attractions.

Scottish weather is famous for being unpredictable. You may experience all four seasons in one day. So, carry an umbrella or a rain jacket when you go out.

Edinburgh is also a great destination for a short winter city break in the UK. It hosts a lovely Christmas market.

Map of the Tourist Attractions

Here is a map of all the Edinburgh tourist attractions mentioned in this article. We have also marked some of the best cafes, restaurants, and pubs for you. Save this Google Map on your phone to use it later. Also, you can use it offline.

How to Get Around Edinburgh

Most of the attractions mentioned in this article are spread across the historic Old and New Town. The area is not that huge. So, the cobbled streets of Edinburgh are best explored on foot.

This city has an excellent public transport system. If you are venturing out of the city centre, catch a local Lothian Bus service.

Buses run frequently day and night. It costs £1.80 for a single journey and £4.50 for a day ticket. Also, the tram runs regularly from Edinburgh Airport to St Andrew’s Square.

We hope this article on the best things to do in the city of Edinburgh was helpful to plan your trip. Read our other travel guides of Scotland to fuel your travel inspirations further.

3 thoughts on “30 Epic Things to Do in Edinburgh: Ultimate Guide by a Local”

Excellent. This should be used as a leaflet of Edinburgh for tourist and sightseeing. Informative and interesting, make you want to get up and go do.

Excellent piece! We will definitely use this!

Thanks for the wonderful info. Is there a working link to the ‘detailed 2-day itinerary of Edinburgh” ? Would love to see it.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Edinburgh Guided Tour

Private & group walking tours of edinburgh, scotland.

We now offer  virtual tours of Edinburgh  where our guide can link up to the client, using zoom or similar technology, whilst the guide walks and/or drives around the city giving a commentary as he/she does so. We have now done this, very successfully, for  educational establishments ,  companies  and  private individuals . If you wish to book a  virtual tour , or simply wish to know more, please contact us by using our contact form on our contact page , saying what you have in mind. 

• Most Popular!
• Hour Glass 3 Hours
• Tag Walking Tour

Group Walking Tour – Edinburgh

The tour focuses on the historical, cultural, and architectural heritage of Edinburgh.

• Hour Glass 3.5 or 7 Hours

Private Edinburgh Walking Tour

Customisable tours to suit your taste. Our private tours allow your group to have an educated guide all to yourselves.

Our Edinburgh Walking Tours

Start your holiday with us and let us give you inside knowledge on what to see, where to go, and things to do.

The Edinburgh walking tours focus on the historical, cultural, and architectural heritage of Edinburgh. Most of the major historical sites of interest are covered, including the world-famous Royal Mile in the Old Town.

On our Group Walking Tours , we have an absolute maximum of 12 walkers to ensure you have a first-class experience. We feel strongly that tours of 30, 40 or 50 more, just cannot give you the same experience.

And where better to start those walks than the Usher Hall, Scotland’s premier concert hall, donated to the city in 1896 by Andrew Usher.

Alternatively, our Private Walking Tours allow you to see even more landmarks and sights around Edinburgh both in the Old and New towns and can even be altered to suit your personal tastes/interests, as you will be the only walkers on the tour.

Our guides are very carefully hand-picked for their historical knowledge and they share our love of history and the city.

Edinburgh Guided Tour is currently ranked number 8 out of 470 Edinburgh tours on Tripadvisor; an exceptional performance for our small tour company.

And, even better, in 2019 Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Awards had us ranked at #5 in the world for cultural experiences!

You can book your tour with us with confidence. If your plans change, you can always cancel the booking and get a full refund (apart from cancellations made with less than 24 hours to go). 

Meet the Guides for our Edinburgh Guided Tours

Father and son team, Stuart and Richard Usher, started Edinburgh Guided Tour in 2012 with one clear vision; to provide an intimate walking tour of Edinburgh’s Old Town and Royal Mile that would enthuse their guests with its amazing history, its famous characters and its magnificently varied architecture.

Simply put, they want their guests to fall in love with Edinburgh!

Introducing Professor John W. Frank MD, CCFP, MSc, FRCPC, FCAHS, FFPH, FRSE, LLD: John has held a Personal Chair in Public Health Research and Policy in the Usher Institute at the University of Edinburgh from 2017 to 2021, at which time he retired. John was born in Canada but has lived and worked in Edinburgh for almost 20 years. He is a keen history buff and, despite his lofty academic attainment is a genuinely down to earth, warm and immensely affable tour guide.

Introducing Dr Alison Duncan: Alison is a Scottish history expert and a  professional historian and she can make the wonders of Scottish History come alive, in front of your eyes, as she takes you on tour.

Alison was recently interviewed by Channel Four’s Professor Alice Roberts as part of their episode covering Edinburgh, on the hit TV series, ‘Britain’s Most Historic Towns’. Please see the video on the right.

Introducing David Forsyth: David is a professional historian and, prior to his recent retirement after 25 years with the National Museum of Scotland, David acted as ‘Keeper’ (Manager) of the Museum’s Scottish History & Art & Design Departments. David will absolutely delight you with his stories about the city and its history.

David was recently featured on BBC’s ‘Art that made us’ and is shown here talking to the BBC’s Shaun Leane. Please see the video on the right.

Introducing Douglas Graham BD (Hons) MSt (Oxon.) DipPTP: After training for three years as a stage actor, Douglas read Theology at the universities of Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Oxford. He is a keen student of History and a gifted storyteller. Douglas is a great addition to our team.

Introducing Craig Goodman BDS; Born in Scotland, Craig’s love of history began as a child and, as a voracious reader, this continued over the years. After qualifying as a Dentist, his professional life took him to England and to Germany. Eventually, the pull of home brought him back to Scotland and his proximity to Edinburgh ignited his passion, not just to further expand his knowledge of its history, but to unfold to others the historical riches this wonderful city holds.

How do you pronounce EDINBURGH? Here is Stuart Usher, our senior guide, on Scottish TV’s news programme, giving the definitive and CORRECT answer.

Edinburgh Guided Tour Recognised Among Best In The World!

• Edinburgh Guided Tour are extremely proud to announce that our Guided Group Walking Tour has won the 2023 Viator Experience Award ! It rates us among the Top Twenty Viator attractions in all of Northern Europe .
• Viator is the world’s largest travel experiences marketplace with more than 300,000 bookable tours, activities, and excursions.
• Our Guided Group Walking Tour is our most popular, best-selling tour and it is the original experience that started us off over 10 years ago!
• This longstanding tour, focuses on the most important streets in Edinburgh and covers the most seminal people, buildings and events from Scotland’s history, and has grown from strength to strength and stood the test of time.

Other Plaudits for our Edinburgh Walking Tours

• In 2019, Edinburgh Guided Tour was ranked #5 in the World for Cultural Experiences in the 2019 TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards. An outstanding achievement!
• In 2016 we were selected as being one of Edinburgh’s Top Ten walks by the Guardian newspaper.
• In 2019 we were selected as one of Edinburgh’s 7 best walking tours by The Scotsman newspaper

The Ushers of Edinburgh

Stuart and Richard’s family roots are steeped in the history of both Edinburgh and Scotland. Stuart’s great-grandfather, Sir John Usher Bt., and his great-great uncle, Andrew Usher, introduced blended whisky to the world. In fact, Andrew in particular is widely acknowledged as the Father of the Blended Scotch Whisky Industry. From the Usher Hall by Edinburgh Castle and the Usher Institute at the University of Edinburgh Medical School, to the Usher created North British Distillery near the city centre, the Ushers are as intertwined with Scotland’s Capital City as bagpipes and tartan are with this outstandingly beautiful country.

Andrew Usher, father of the modern Scottish whisky industry

Our Walking Tours in Edinburgh were Rated "Excellent" by 94% of our Guests!

"Wide range of information on the history, architecture geology and people who contributed to Edinburgh. I learnt absolutely tons in 3 hours. Easy nuggets of knowledge delivered in a conversational style. Excellent introduction to the city from our guide Alison."

"Stuart was great and very knowledgeable! He also gave great advice on where to shop, eat, and drink."

"Starting at the appropriately named Usher Hall (you'll be told all about that), the tour progressed at a leisurely pace throughout the centre of Edinburgh. Stuart's knowledge is extensive, and his delivery humorous, leading to a hugely enjoyable and unique touring experience. Would highly recommend."

"Hugely informative and wonderful as an introductory tour in Edinburgh. Great trivia and historical information along with fantastic restaurant and shop recommendations. I would advise anyone to take this tour as it is a fantastic way to accommodate yourself to this city!"

"Lively and entertaining. Just the right mix of solid facts and amusing trivia. A fantastic introduction to the city."

"Alison was a brilliant tour guide. The tour was interesting, enjoyable and gave the right amount of information on the places we visited. We had a small group which was great so we could ask questions and get to know the other guests. Would highly recommend this tour."

"We walked privately with Stuart Usher through old & new town as well as the Royal Mile. It was absolutely excellent!! Not only was Stuart enjoyable company, but the tour provided a solid overview of the history of the mile and recommendations for food and shopping. Stuart pointed out fun details that I would've never otherwise noticed. It really gave me an appreciation for what this city has to offer. Plus, the information provided was the perfect balance between detailed v. general, old v. modern, etc. We loved it and will definitely use the service should we return to Edinburgh in the future!! THANK YOU STUART! :)"

"It was a joy to spend the day with Alison. She was passionate about the city and its history and struck the right balance between historical content and lay person human interest. She engages the group in a comfortable manner and flexes to meet the needs and interests of whoever she has with her that day. Highly recommend joining one of her tours."

"We loved Stuart Usher and what he brought to our understanding of Edinburgh and the special knowledge that he has of its history having been there for many generations. His family donated Usher Hall, a premiere music venue, to the city and that attests to the intimate viewpoint Mr. Usher has of not only the history but also the current condition of Edinburgh. We enjoyed his very insightful comments and also his recommendations of places to eat and go see. All in all, a very worthy experience and one that I would do early in your visit to the city to be able to go back to some of the places pointed out on the trip."

"Our guide for the tour of Edinburgh was incredible ... literally cannot write/speak enough of my praise. Guide was well versed in the history - woven in the details was a comprehensive reflection of the old compared with the new. Guide arranged the tour to our interests, using old maps and books for us to view ... a truly must guide to show you around the lovely city."

Planning a trip to Edinburgh? In Introducingedinburgh.com you’ll find all the necessary and up to date information on the best places to visit in the city, where to stay or the top neighbourhoods to go out for dinner and a night out , among a lot more interesting facts and figures. 

Edinburgh Travel Guide

• General Information
• Top Attractions
• Getting to Edinburgh
• Getting around Edinburgh
• Where to Eat
• Where to Stay
• 2-Day Edinburgh Itinerary

Why visit Edinburgh?

Scotland’s capital is one of the most unique and memorable cities in Europe . Edinburgh has a rare charm with narrow and cobbled passageways , called closes in Scots . The town is also known for its dark corners where terrifying events have taken place , its majestic buildings and gardens , countless fascinating museums , which are free to visit,  and, especially, the city's  kind and open locals . All the above-mentioned make this city a favorite among those who have seen it.

Edinburgh is fondly known as “Auld Reekie,”  which means “Old Smokey” in Scots. This is because of all the smoke and chimneys the city had in the past, creating smog over the city. The weather in Edinburgh is normally rainy and windy , but far from being an inconvenience, the bitter weather gives the town an extra charm, creating a mysterious and somber atmosphere.

The capital has a unique radiance when the rays of sun stream through the clouds, and when the night falls, the ghosts that refuse to leave Edinburgh  come out to haunt the streets and buildings while guides accompany curious tourists to see crypts, alleyways, and graveyards to discover the mysteries that besiege the heart of the city.

As well as countless ghost stories, Edinburgh also offers its visitors and locals a wide variety of attractions, including museums , most of which are free. Tourists can also visit a whisky distillery and learn how Scotland’s national drink is made in   the   Scotch Whisky Experience ,  discover how the Scottish people lived during the Middle Ages in the People’s Story Museum , or explore the evolution of medicine in the Surgeon’s Hall Museums .

The country’s hearty dishes combined with the traditional Scottish breakfast will probably mean you’ll go home a few pounds heavier but happy and full of extremely fond memories of the city.

With our guide, you’ll discover why Edinburgh is the second most visited city in the UK after London . Every year, over two million tourists visit Scotland’s capital city.

Need accommodation?

If you still don’t have a hotel, hostel, or apartment booked, we recommend checking out the link below, where you’ll find all types of accommodation with the best rates guaranteed. If you book in advance, you’ll be able to get up to 75% discount and pay once you get to your destination.

• Hotels in Edinburgh – Book online for the best rates guaranteed.

top activities

Edinburgh: Loch Ness, Highlands & Glencoe Day Trip Travel from Edinburgh to Loch Ness on this tour of some of the  Scottish Highlands ' most stunning attractions - an unforgettable day trip at the best price!

Edinburgh Castle Guided Tour Edinburgh Castle is the most visited monument in Scotland ; an unmissable sight in the Scottish capital. Don't miss this Edinburgh Castle Guided Tour!

Edinburgh Underground Ghost Tour Embark on a haunting journey into Edinburgh's eerie depths . Uncover the secrets within the haunted underground vaults and Greyfriars Kirkyard by night !

Edinburgh Free Tour Discover Edinburgh's Old Town with this free walking tour of one of Scotland's most beloved cities. This tour is perfect for any first-visitors to Edinburgh!

Dinner and Traditional Scottish Show Looking for fun things to do in Edinburgh ? Spend a unique evening with this Scottish folk dinner and concert , complete with lively music and local dishes.

Forth Boat Tour Make the most of your time in Edinburgh admiring one of the most emblematic feats of civil engineering on this boat tour of three Forth bridges .

Holyrood Palace Tickets Coronations, weddings, betrayal, assassination... discover the secrets of Holyrood Palace: the official residence of the queen of England and Scotland .

Edinburgh Outlander Tour Imposing castles, palaces and mythical mansions ... Discover a new side of Scotland by exploring the filming locations of the legendary TV series  Outlander .

Day Trip: Stirling, Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park Get a slice of Highland life on this day trip to western Scotland, witht scenic lochs, the old capital of Stirling, and the Trossachs: land of William Wallace.

Holy Island & Alnwick Castle Day Trip Discover the Medieval Kingdom of Northumbria: explore the ruined castles, quaint villages and wild coastline of North-East England on this tour from Edinburgh.

West Highland Lochs, Mountains & Castles Day Trip This day trip lets you enjoy a taste of all things Scottish , as we take you on a fascinating journey through the Highlands. Lochs, castles and mountains await.

Royal Edinburgh Ticket Book this Royal Edinburgh Ticket and enjoy the best of the Scottish capital city for 48 hours. Visit the Castle, the Royal Yacht and the Palace .

Get lost in the lively Scottish nightlife with this route across five of the capital's best pubs . Pints of beer, live music... let's get this party started!

Ghost Tour of Edinburgh The Scottish capital is famously haunted and there have been countless sightings of phantoms. Are you brave enough to take our ghost tour of Edinburgh ?

Edinburgh Food Tour On this Edinburgh Food Tour, you'll explore the Scottish capital through its gastronomy. You'll try traditional dishes such as haggis, neeps and tatties!

Rosslyn Chapel and the Borders Day Trip On this trip, you'll explore the mysterious Rosslyn Chapel and the border town of Melrose & its Abbey , plus a tour of a malt whisky distillery .

Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond & The Kelpies Explore the Scottish Highlands on this day trip from Edinburgh to Stirling, Loch Lomond and the Kelpies! You'll discover history and nature!

Scottish Highlands Tour Explore the Scottish Highlands on this excursion from Edinburgh and discover natural landscapes, a whisky distillery and historical monuments!

Loch Ness & the Scottish Highlands: 2 Day Tour Delve deep into the delights of Scotland. Discover spectacular mountains, rivers and lochs as you immerse yourself in the legendary history of the Highlands.

St. Andrews & Fife's Fishing Villages Day Trip Make the most of your stay in Edinburgh with this St. Andrews & Fife's Fishing Villages Day Trip. Explore the famous golfing town and quaint coastal towns.

3-Day Tour of Skye and the Highlands See the very north of Scotland , where the winds whip the wild edge of the United Kingdom. We'll see highlands highlights such as Loch Ness, Ben Nevis  and more.

Blackness Castle & Forth Bridges Cruise Enjoy a cruise to the three famous Forth bridges and the historic Blackness Castle on this  boat tour on the Firth of Forth .

Whisky Distillery Tour Discover the secrets of Scotch whisky on this  tour of the Dewar's and Glenturret distilleries from Edinburgh ​. The ideal excursion for any whisky lover!

Edinburgh Private Tour Discover the architecture, history & everyday life of Edinburgh accompanied by a private tour guide . The best way to explore Scotland's capital city!

Edinburgh Shore Excursion If you're arriving in the Scottish capital by cruise, don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the city's history with this Edinburgh Shore Excursion.

Edinburgh Hard Rock Cafe Enjoy a delicious lunch or dinner at Edinburgh's Hard Rock Cafe, a restaurant full of rock and roll. Choose your menu and enjoy a fun dining experience!

Full Day Edinburgh Walking Tour + Entry Tickets On this  tour of Edinburgh , you'll visit the most important places in the city , such as the Castle and the Scotland National Gallery . 

Edinburgh Hop On Hop Off Bus Explore top Edinburgh attractions with our flexible hop-on hop-off bus tour without getting tired . Enjoy audio commentary in multiple languages!

Harry Potter Train Tour Want to travel on the Hogwarts Express ? Travel through Scotland's breathtaking scenery on board the Jacobite with this  Harry Potter Train Tour .

Edinburgh Christmas Tour We'll admire Christmas markets and dreamy lights  on this Christmas Tour in Edinburgh . Explore the Scottish capital at this magical time of year!

Outlander Tour While in the Scottish capital , take a page from Jamie Fraser 's book and embark on our Outlander tour through Edinburgh to see iconic sites from the hit series !

This guide has been made by exploring each street, taking photos of every nook and cranny, and paying attention to each and every little detail to help you prepare your trip in the best way possible .

All the information in this guide was updated in March 2023 . If you see any errors or anything we should change, we would be delighted to hear from you .

Our travel guides

• top attractions
• where to stay
• and much more

Best Time to Visit

Edinburgh Airport Guide

Public Transportation

48-Hour Itinerary

Day Trips From Edinburgh

Top Things to Do

Best Museums

Visiting Edinburgh Castle

Guide to Arthur's Seat

Best Restaurants

Nightlife Guide

Your Trip to Edinburgh: The Complete Guide

Known sometimes as "The Athens of the North" or "Auld Reekie," the Scottish capital is one of the country's most popular destinations, and is a great place to spend a long weekend or to include in a larger Scotland itinerary . Edinburgh is relatively compact and walkable, but there's a lot to see and do in this historic and culturally vibrant capital, including exploring Edinburgh Castle, visiting one of the city's top museums, going on a nearby hike, or hitting up the annual Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

Whether you are looking to explore Edinburgh's food and bar scene or to travel back in time through its history, here are a few things to keep in mind while planning your trip.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit: Based purely on the weather, June through August is the best time of year to travel to Edinburgh. Scotland can be notoriously gloomy and wet during the winter, but summer brings moderate temperatures and some sun, making it ideal for outdoor sightseeing. Do keep in mind that summer is also peak tourist season; if you want to avoid the crowds, consider planning your trip for either May or September. No matter what time of year you visit, be sure to pack layers of clothing.
• Language: English is the primary language spoken in Scotland and the rest of the U.K. However, because Edinburgh is a fairly large, international city, you may hear other languages spoken around town. Gaelic is also spoken in some parts of Scotland.
• Currency: The currency in the U.K. is the pound sterling , which is also known as GBP or just "the pound." Cents are known as pence.
• Getting Around : While Edinburgh is a highly walkable city, especially in the city center, there are good public transportation options, including the Lothian Buses and Edinburgh Trams. Taxis and Ubers are also available. Car rentals are another option, though we don't recommend driving or parking in the city center of Edinburgh.
• Travel Tip : Make your visit to Edinburgh part of a larger exploration of Scotland, taking advantage of the trains if you prefer not to drive through the winding roads. Glasgow is less than an hour away from Edinburgh, while Dundee and St. Andrews are a quick journey north. But you don't have to pick just the bigger destinations to better understand Scottish culture. Nearby, look for day trips to the Scottish Borders, North Berwick and Stirling, when planning an itinerary.

Things to Do

Edinburgh has a lot of history, culture, and art available to explore, as well as expansive shopping areas. Touring Edinburgh Castle , one of the oldest fortified palaces in Europe, is a must-do for all visitors, as is hiking Arthur's Seat , the highest point in Edinburgh. Another popular attraction is Palace of Holyroodhouse; the Scottish residence of Queen Elizabeth II, it welcomes visitors whenever the British Royal Family is not in town. Here are some of the top things to do during your trip to Edinburgh:

• Tour The National Art Gallery of Scotland ; consisting of three galleries, this vast art museum showcases works from both Scotland and around the world.
• Dine at The Kitchin , a renowned Michelin-starred restaurant that highlights local ingredients.
• Attend the annual Edinburgh Festival Fringe , the world's largest arts festival , to see performances ranging from plays and comedy shows to live music.

For more, explore our full-length articles on the top things to do in Edinburgh and the best museums in Edinburgh . And, be sure to check out our guide to spending 48 hours in the Scottish capital .

Iain Masterton/Getty Images 

What to Eat and Drink

Edinburgh is an international city that boasts cuisine from all over the world, but of course you'll want to experience Scottish fare while visiting. Haggis, a meaty pudding cooked in a sheep's stomach, is Scotland's most famous dish and broadly available around Edinburgh, especially at pubs. Other local dishes include Stornoway black pudding, Cullen skink, Cranachan, and smoked salmon. And if you're wanting to imbibe on Scottish whisky, you can sample it at any number of places, including The Abbey Bar and The Balmoral Whisky Bar .

Because the city is so diverse, travelers will find not just pubs, but also fancy Michelin-starred restaurants, quirky burger joints, and outdoor food stalls. While many restaurants and pubs can be found in the city center, be sure to venture into Leith to try pizza at La Favorita or Scottish-French fusion at Restaurant Martin Wishart .

For more, check out the best restaurants in Edinburgh and our guide to Edinburgh nightlife .

Where to Stay

While each of Edinburgh's 12 neighborhoods is distinctly charming, you might find some more convenient than others depending on your itinerary, Most travelers opt to stay in the city center, which includes the Royal Mile and New Town. Many of the popular hotels, including both chain and boutique options, are located in these two areas alongside the popular attractions and shopping streets. If you prefer to stay somewhere close to the water, look for a hotel or apartment rental in Leith, a cool neighborhood with lots of independent cafés, stores, and bookshops. For something a little off-center, head to Portobello, a seaside resort neighborhood only 20 minutes from central Princes Street. Some iconic Edinburgh hotels include The Balmoral , The Witchery by the Castle , The Royal Scots Club , and Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh .

Read our roundup of the best hotels in Edinburgh to learn more and find the right accommodation for you.

Getting There

Most international travelers arrive in Edinburgh by flying into Edinburgh Airport , a fairly busy airport with one main terminal. The airport services several cities in the U.S., mostly on the East Coast, as well as Europe and the Middle East. It also has numerous flights that connect from London's Heathrow Airport.

Alternatively, you can take a train from London or one of the U.K.'s other large cities; trains operate regularly and arrive at Edinburgh Waverley station. If you're driving, be sure to include a GPS in your rental car to help navigate the unfamiliar roads.

Culture and Customs

Tipping isn't as frequent in Scotland as it is in America, but it's still customary to tip in restaurants or taxis, especially when you receive good service. The typical amount is 10 percent, but you can use your best judgment. In a pub, leave a pound or two when ordering drinks at the bar. And while it may be slightly jarring to some visitors, the legal drinking age in Scotland is 18.

 Joe Daniel Price/Getty Images

Money Saving Tips

• The best way to save a few bucks is to walk. Edinburgh is a very walkable city and it's central area is compact enough that you shouldn't need a rental car or to take many taxis. Plan out your itinerary to take advantage of walking everywhere you can.
• Many of the museums offer free entry, including The National Museum of Scotland, The Museum of Childhood, and The Museum on the Mound. Historic cathedrals like St. Giles' Cathedral are also free to enter.
• Tour the Scottish Parliament for a glimpse inside Scotland's political landscape. It's open to the public six days a week and tours are free.
• To save money on meals, pay a visit to one of Edinburgh's food markets. The Pitt Market, which takes place every Saturday in Leith, is one of the most popular. Travelers arriving at Waverley Station will also find more than 40 food stalls at Waverley Market @ Platform 2.
• Two discount attraction passes are available for tourists in Edinburgh: Royal Edinburgh Ticket and Edinburgh City Pass .

Visit Scotland. "Frequently Asked Questions About Scotland."

VisitScotland. "Frequently Asked Questions About Scotland."

This Is Edinburgh. "Edinburgh Fringe Festival."

Your Trip to Birmingham, England: The Complete Guide

Your Trip to Mexico City: The Complete Guide

10 Questions to Ask Yourself Before You Plan Your UK Trip

Dublin Guide: Planning Your Trip

Nightlife in Edinburgh: Best Bars, Clubs, & More

Your Trip to Ireland: The Complete Guide

Best Time to Visit Edinburgh

48 Hours in Edinburgh: The Ultimate Itinerary

The Top 20 Things to Do in Edinburgh

Trips to Sicily: The Complete Guide

The Best 15 Restaurants in Edinburgh

Regensburg: Planning Your Trip

Your Trip to Munich: The Complete Guide

Toronto Guide: Planning Your Trip

France Guide: Planning Your Trip

Seoul Guide: Planning Your Trip

Europe Chevron

United Kingdom Chevron

Scotland Chevron

Edinburgh Chevron

Edinburgh Travel Guide

There used to be a down season in Edinburgh, when Scotland's capital city—with its beautiful Gothic buildings, cobblestoned Royal Mile, and 12th-century castle keeping watch on a hilltop—caught a slight breather from tourists. But no longer. The crowds keep coming, all year long, because they've caught onto why this city generally is the first stop on a trip to Scotland. Edinburgh is most famous for its wild arts and performance festival, which takes place every year for the full month of August—when the days are longer, and the weather warmer. But the Scottish capital is a romantic spot for a winter-city break, too. With a buzzing dining scene, not to mention an expanded emphasis on drinks beyond suds and whisky, this is a city that artfully balances the (very) old with the new. Dive into our guide to find out why this might be Europe's hottest capital right now.

Plan Your Edinburgh Trip

By Rick Jordan

By Mark Ellwood

By Steve King

By Jordi Lippe-McGraw

By Paul Rubio

By Krystin Arneson

Editor Hotel Recommendations

The Best Things to Do in Edinburgh

By Freya Herring

By Danielle Bernabe

Editor Recommendations

By Sarah Khan

The Best Places to Eat & Drink in Edinburgh

By Caroline Eden

By Karen Gardiner

Editor Restaurant and Bar Recommendations

More from Edinburgh

By Ross Kenneth Urken

By Olivia Morelli

By Andrew Sessa

By Meredith Carey

By Juliana Shallcross

By Lilit Marcus

More Destinations

By CNT Editors

• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

The Top 14 Things To Do in Edinburgh in 2024

Fey Arberk Bozoglu Last Updated: October 26, 2023

If you are planning to visit the beautiful city of Edinburgh, we’ve got you covered for fun activities to do. This list comprises not only the top things to do in Edinburgh, but also the cultural gems located here. From the Edinburgh Castle to the Scotch Whiskey Experience, this list will provide you with the full Edinburgh experience.

Pro Tip: Bookmark this article if you plan on visiting Edinburgh or want to see the top things to do here! Also, if you’re craving food here don’t forget to check out our recommendations for the best restaurants in Edinburgh .

14 Best Things To Do, Eat, and Explore in Edinburgh

Edinburgh has one of the most interesting and historical atmospheres in the British Isles. Our list aims to shine light on the top things to do in Edinburgh with 14 distinct attractions. Certainly, visit these places and experience them! You won’t be disappointed because each place is marvellous in their own way, whether it’s enjoying nature or learning the history of Scotland.

You can explore and tour many places, for example: Edinburgh Castle, Forth Bridge, the Royal Botanic Garden, and on and on. There is an extensive amount of things to do here, which makes it difficult to reduce our list. In other words, you’ll find plenty of fun, free, and interesting things to do in Edinburgh.

Our Partnership with Booking.com.  If you like our content, please book by clicking on our Booking.com links. The price is the same for you, and we get a small commission that helps support our blog. We’ve partnered with Booking.com because they have the most options, great prices, and a solid loyalty program. Just about every hotel is on Booking so our recommendations are not incentivized.

14) Visit The Royal Botanic Garden

The Royal Botanic Garden is an essential place to visit in Edinburgh, because it dates back to 17 th century. This attraction is both a tourist and local favourite. Carrying the beauties of the city, the Royal Botanic Garden is also a world-renowned scientific centre for plants.

You can expect many interesting and beautiful things to see at the Botanic garden. For instance, you can walk through the Arboretum which is filled with lush trees, the Chinese Hillside which is made up of rare and colourful plants, explore tropical plants, and more.  

The Garden is open daily and the entry is free. There are two entrances to get here which are: the West Gate (EH3 5NZ) and East Gate (EH3 5LP). Buses are available for both gate entrances and you can also find bicycles at each gate to use. However, if you will come by car, you can only access the Garden’s West Gate.

Address: Arboretum PI, Edinburgh

13) Eat At The Kitchin

One of the most interesting things about Edinburgh and Scotland is the multicultural environment. This multiculturalism is also reflected with the many tasty culinary options in Edinburgh. For instance, the Kitchin intertwines French methods to Scottish food which transcends your taste buds to a new level.

However, the Kitchin is great for many other reasons. The Kitchin has held Michelin status since 2006 alongside with many other prestigious awards. This top restaurant is also special for its motto of “from nature to plate” which shows its freshness and daily selections.

If you visit the Kitchin you must try Wagyu which is formed of Highland Wagyu beef, truffle, and egg. This culinary experience goes well with wine and there are selections of must try wine pairings.

Address: 78, Commercial Quay, Leith, Edinburgh

12) Get a Room with an Historical Essence: 23 Mayfield Hotel

If you seek a hotel with an historical ambience and a comfy and relaxing atmosphere, 23 Mayfield is for you. This hotel is highly recommended as the best place to stay, because it embraces Edinburgh’s history with its Victorian style.

Built in 1868, 23 Mayfield has the perfect central location if you want to stay in the City Centre. It’s really close to Castle and Princes Street.

Scottish hospitality is very famous and is indeed present at 23 Mayfield with its family-run concept. You’ll love the hand-carved mahogany furniture in each room too. For overseas visitors, remember that a twin room means two single beds and a double means one double bed to share!

Additionally, the breakfast here is award-winning and has many selections from champagne breakfast to steam porridge and more. But, you must try the “Eggcup Award Winning” for a scrumptious traditional Scottish breakfast.

Location, photo, and booking

11) Take a Creepy Tour of The Real Mary King’s Close

Edinburgh is famous for its underground tours with fascinating and entertaining experiences. The Real Mary King’s Close is a top place to visit in Edinburgh as an underground tour located under the buildings of the Royal Mile. The Real Mary King’s Close is the best tour of all our underground tours.

If you love a haunted and paranormal experience this attraction will knock your socks off! You can follow in the footsteps of former residents which make this experience ever so exciting.

For a historical and fun time, you can choose to tour with costumed guides. Some costumed guides are: the Plague Doctor, the Poet, and the Maid. After this fun and creepy tour, head to the gift shop and coffee shop that has locally sourced options to try.

Address: Warriston’s Close, 2, High St, Edinburgh

Visiting Edinburgh soon? We’ve put together a list of where to stay in Edinburgh plus the best Harry Potter stops in Edinburgh!

10) stay in the hotel where harry potter came to life.

Certainly, Edinburgh is famous for the Harry Potter experience and a closer look into the world of J.K. Rowling. There are many attractions that encapsulate this experience in Scotland; however, the Balmoral Hotel is one of the most unique.

Why? Well, the infamous J.K. Rowling completed the Harry Potter series here, and there is a J.K. Rowling suite available for Harry Potter fans to stay in.

However, there are other reasons you should stay here too. For instance, the Balmoral Hotel is a five-star hotel and has a Michelin-starred restaurant. Also, many of the rooms in this hotel have the view of the Castle and Old Town. Don’t miss out on this luxurious and charming stay.

Location, photos, and booking

9) Explore the Wonders of Calton Hill

Scotland and Edinburgh is formed of marvellous hills and Calton Hill is one of them. In fact, the whole of Calton Hill is composed of major landmarks, commercial areas, and peaceful streets. For instance, there is the National Monument, the Collective Gallery, and more great spots. You can also walk through Calton Hill to have a free, fun, and healthy activity while viewing its marvellous wonders.  

Most importantly, Carton Hill has panoramic views that are majestic and are great to take photos for Instagram memories at sunset. It’s no wonder that Carton Hill is labelled as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, because of all the distinct areas and vistas it has.

Also, when at Calton Hill you can experience the Athenian acropolis architecture (the National Monument) while climbing the hill. You’ll wonder if you stepped into Greece! If you’re here in August don’t miss out the Edinburgh festival shows. Some of these festivals are about art, films, and books, which will appeal to many travellers.

Address: Edinburgh EH7 5AA, Edinburgh

8) Walk through Princes Street

Do you love shopping or walking through a luscious green garden? Then, certainly a walk through Princes Street is the perfect thing to do for you. This street is formed of many shops, hotels (for example: The Balmoral Hotel), transportation, green parks, and more.

Princes Street is most importantly an icon of Edinburgh where many films have used this street for iconic Edinburgh scene. This street is indeed busy due to its fame and beauty.

Here are a few must-see attractions on Princes Street: Princes Street Garden filled with a lush green atmosphere and the Scottish National Gallery with amazing art selections. For some essential things to do here: shop at the National Scottish shops filled with whiskey options and cute souvenirs, then eat at any local café.

Also, don’t miss out on the seasonal markets present at Princes Street Garden such as Edinburgh’s Farmers Market.

Address: Princes St, EH2 2AN, Edinburgh

7) Indulge in The Scotch Whiskey Experience

What is the national drink of Scotland you might ask? As a matter of fact, the preferred drink of Edinburgh and Scotland as a whole is whiskey. So why not experience this marvellous drink in the lands from which it was created!

The Scotch Whiskey Experience is a perfect way to tour, explore, taste, and learn about the wonders of whiskey. You can also be a part of the whiskey-making process and gulp on some delicious Scotch whiskies on the way.

Additionally, the Scotch Whiskey Experience provides a variety of tours, from Tasting Tales to The Taste of Scotland and more. The Scotch Whiskey Experience also is home to the World’s Largest Collection of Scotch Whiskey, so there is an option for everyone who loves to booze their way through a city.

Address: The Royal Mile, 354 Castlehill, Edinburgh

6) Teatime at The Signet Library

How about an afternoon of tea and other brilliant drinks and desserts in a unique setting with Georgian architecture? If that sounds fun, then head to the Signet Library to feel posh, luxurious, and pampered. The Signet Library has a deep historical essence stemming from Edinburgh’s Golden Age. This iconic place has been home for ideas and knowledge to prosper.

Afternoon tea is a staple in Scotland, especially Edinburgh. As such, you must try afternoon tea at the Signet Library, because the tea is refreshing, lovely, and served with champagne.

The Signet Library is for everyone, but it has a secret: the TV show Outlanders featured the tea here. You don’t have to be an Outlanders fan to taste this sensation. It’s definitely worth it for anyone!

Address: The Signet Library, Parliament Square, Edinburgh

5) Visit The Forth Bridge

Located in Queensferry (North and South), Edinburgh, and dating back to 1890, this bridge is beautiful at any time of the day. Similar to Calton Hill, the Forth Bridge is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a strong historical background. Additionally, the Forth Bridge is both a local and tourist symbol and is featured on the Banknotes of Scotland.

What makes the Forth Bridge historical and important is because of its length. It had the world’s longest bridge span of 541 meters (1,774 feet) when it opened in1890. Also, this bridge was the world’s first major steel structure with intertwined cantilever designs.

Additionally, this bridge is fun to enjoy with local shops and cafes surrounding the bridge when you’re ready for a quick bite or a cup of tea. Don’t forget to take a photo and sit on the benches near the bridge where you can enjoy fresh sea air and a great view of sunrise or sunset.

Address: Forth Bridge, South Queensferry, Edinburgh

4) Taste True Scottish Cuisine

The Witchery is one of the top places to eat in Edinburgh, especially for a luxurious experience or fancy date night. The cuisine is delicious Scottish-based food from Scottish lobster to beef or lamb to haggis. However, you must try the pudding menu too. From cheese selections to ice cream, all of the choices are delicious here.

The Witchery by the Castle has a deep historical background too. In fact, the Witchery gets its name from the hundreds of people burned to death due to the belief that they were witches. This fine dining restaurant is available everyday where you can eat its award-winning a la carte menu with a warm, rich Scottish ambiance.

If you want to experience the full on Scottish foods in a single, tasty, filling bite either try: the Lamb Wellington or the Witchery Haggis. These foods will make you feel the Scottish culture and delicious fresh meat options found in Edinburgh and beyond the city boundaries.

Address: 352 Castlehill, Edinburgh

3) Climb an Extinct Volcano: Arthur’s Seat

Legend has it that Arthur’s Seat is named after King Arthur, and it might be one of the locations for Camelot in Edinburgh. When climbing and walking through this hill you can feel the mysterious atmosphere present here.

Arthur’s Seat is Edinburgh’s highest hill – an extinct volcano – and is part of Holyrood Park. This exceptional attraction is located in the heart of the city and is just a short walk from Edinburgh’s Royal Mile. Arthur’s Seat is also free, but I highly recommend a tour because the history of this place is both immersive and intriguing.

In short, you must climb Arthur’s Seat for many reasons. However, one core reason is to see a 360-degree view of Edinburgh. If you plan to climb or walk here, don’t forget to wear your comfy walking shoes!

Address: Edinburgh EH16 5HX, Edinburgh

2) Visit Historic Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle is both a local and tourist attraction for many people and ties together the long history of Edinburgh and England. In fact, this castle is one of the oldest places still standing in the British Isles – initially built in the 11th century and added upon later. The castle was originally a royal residence, military garrison, prison, and strategic fortress and is still considered the most besieged fortress in Britain.

What also makes this castle a fantastic attraction is that it symbolises not only Edinburgh, but also Scotland with its legendary past by displaying its national identity, Scottish history, and power. It is no wonder that the Edinburgh Castle is the most visited place in Edinburgh, because it ties the symbolism, heritage, and the wonders of Edinburgh together.

If you are here during August, you must see the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo which is made up of a series of military bands who put forth an amazing performance. Also, the castle is located at the Royal Mile close to Old Town which makes it really central.

Here there are many things to do and see, for instance: eat at the castle, follow an itinerary like the Lang Stairs and Portcullis Gate, and visit the Great Hall. Use our helpful guide to visit the Edinburgh Castle .

Address: Castlehill, Edinburgh

Admission Fee: Adult £15.50, Concession £12.40, Child £9.30, and also family tickets are available

1) Explore the National Museum of Scotland

The National Museum of Scotland is without doubt a wonderful place to be in whether with family, friends, or by yourself. The entry is free and open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, which is perfect for families on a budget.

Moreover, this Museum intertwines Scottish antiques, culture, and history and is both fun and informative to explore. You’ll enjoy exploring different periods of Scottish history, the marvels of space, natural wonders, clothing and fashion, and exhibits from around the world. Kids will enjoy seeing the T. Rex skeleton and Moby the whale’s skull, while adults will appreciate the history of the royals like Mary Queen of Scots.

You can easily get to the museum by car, train, or bus since it’s centrally located on Chambers Street which is easy to locate. When at the museum don’t forget to eat at the Balcony Café if you get hungry, then visit the gift shop to find lovely souvenirs. 

Address: Chambers St, EH1 1JF, Edinburgh

Where to Stay in Edinburgh

Get to know the best areas to stay in Edinburgh. We’ve recommended our favorite hotels for those who love to stay in the busy city or out along the coast for more peaceful views of the sea.

About Fey Arberk Bozoglu

Fey loves travelling, researching, and writing about culture, food, art, and history. She also enjoys sharing her experiences and knowledge with her readers. Her expertise covers a wide range of topics such as music, food, art history, and more.

Reader Interactions

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Travel Guide
• In The Press

POLICY & TERMS

• Cancellation Policy
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy

The ultimate royal travel guide to Britain, from Buckingham Palace to Windsor Castle

T he British landscape is awash with royal properties, from stately palaces to historic castles. These include three of the monarch’s official royal residences; Buckingham Palace , Windsor Castle , and Edinburgh’s Palace of Holyroodhouse. 

But while these historic buildings may have the level of grandeur you might imagine when you picture the Royal family at home, in truth, royals are only ‘resident’ in these buildings on occasion. For some, they are even considered business premises – though they rather put the rest of our offices to shame. 

When it comes to days off from official business, members of the Royal family are more likely to be found in their private homes, such as the King and Queen’s Highgrove House in Gloucestershire, or the Prince and Princess of Wales’s family home of Adelaide Cottage in Windsor Home Park. 

While the private homes are exactly that – private – there are plenty of places around Britain where you can walk in the footsteps of the Royal family and get a small glimpse into their lives. Here are some of the best. 

Buckingham Palace, London

Let’s start with the most famous of all royal residences: Buckingham Palace. Elizabeth II largely regarded it as her office, spending weekdays there attending to official business before retreating to Windsor at the weekends.

Now, of course, the palace – whose origins can be traced back to the reign of King James I in the early 17 th century, but which has been the London home of British monarchs since 1837 when Queen Victoria moved in – is the King’s official London residence.

Buckingham Palace is the setting for royal and national celebrations and commemorations; who can forget catching a glimpse of Royal family members from the famous balcony? It’s also where the monarch hosts dignitaries and official banquets – on September 18 2022, the King held a reception for world leaders at the palace on the eve of his mother’s funeral.

As it is a working palace, Buckingham Palace is only open to the public at set times. For 10 weeks each summer, its grand state rooms are opened up. During this time, visitors can see the crimson-and-gold Throne Room, the Royal Mews, and the enormous Ballroom, where all those extravagant state banquets are held. In addition, there are exclusive guided tours at select dates throughout the year.

Those without a ticket or travelling at the wrong time of year can still watch the spectacle of the Changing of the Guard, which takes place outside the palace several days a week at 10.45am (weather dependent but check the schedule ). 

The ceremony has its roots in the reign of King Henry VI and sees the New Guard of soldiers – wearing the customary bearskin hats – march to Buckingham Palace from St James’s Palace and Wellington Barracks accompanied by music. They parade in front of the palace and relieve the ‘Old Guard’ (the soldiers on duty). 

If you are lucky and the King is in residence (the Royal Standard flag will be flying) then there will be an even higher number of sentries than normal taking part in the ceremony.

How to do it

Buckingham Palace (0303 123 7300) is open for 10 weeks each summer (July 14–September 24 2023). The Goring (read our review here ) has double rooms from £710 including breakfast.

Windsor Castle, Windsor

At the start of the Covid pandemic, Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip retreated to this castle on the banks of the River Thames to shield with 22 staff members in what became known as ‘HMS Bubble’. After Prince Philip’s death in April 2021, the late Queen remained at Windsor; indeed, she never spent another night at Buckingham Palace.

The castle was originally built for William the Conqueror to defend London from western approaches, but it became a royal palace under King Henry I. Subsequent monarchs extended the palace with its most ambitious makeover undertaken by King Charles II who wanted to emulate the opulence of his cousin Louis XIV’s Palace of Versailles.

As well as seeing the rich interiors of the castle, visitors can pay their respects to the late Queen by visiting her final resting place within the King George VI Memorial Chapel inside St George’s Chapel.

In 2022, the Prince and Princess of Wales moved to nearby Adelaide Cottage in Windsor Home Park with their three children – Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis – who attend school locally. It may well be that they will eventually move into the castle itself.

Windsor Castle (0303 123 7300) is open daily (summer). Castle Hotel Windsor (read our review here ) has double rooms from £132 including breakfast.

Palace of Holyroodhouse, Edinburgh

The King’s official residence in Scotland, the Palace of Holyroodhouse is a rather grand building that sits at the opposite end of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile to the castle. The palace has links with many famous figures from Scottish history – including Bonnie Prince Charlie, who set up court here in 1745 – but the person most visitors want to hear about is Mary, Queen of Scots. Her bedroom can be reached via a winding staircase in the north-west tower of the palace, and is a delight to discover with its low doorway (despite Mary being around 6ft-tall), decorative oak ceiling and painted frieze.

The reigning monarch stays at the palace every year during Holyrood Week (or Royal Week) from late June to early July. During this time they take part in the symbolic Ceremony of the Keys in which the monarch is handed the keys to the city of Edinburgh by the Lord Provost amid much pomp and ceremony.

The Palace of Holyroodhouse (0303 123 7306) is open daily July-Sept; it’s closed Tue-Wed in all other months. Cheval Old Town Chambers (read our review here ) has double rooms from £190 including breakfast.

Highgrove House, Gloucestershire

When they are not on official duties, the King and Queen love nothing better than to return to their countryside home of Highgrove in the Cotswolds. As the house is a private home, you can’t peek behind its neoclassical façade, but tours of the exquisite gardens – which Charles has dedicated himself to creating since buying the property in 1980 – are lovely. 

An experienced guide will take you through the gardens, which are a real passion project of His Majesty. You will then be led to the Ante Room, where bespoke Highgrove products – including food and drink made from produce grown here – can be bought and artworks by the King himself admired. This is all followed by cream tea in the Orchard Room, making it an idyllic way to spend an afternoon.

Highgrove is open on select dates for tours between April and September. Calcot & Spa (read the review here ) has double rooms from £364 including breakfast.

Llwynywermod, Llandovery

The Royal family also has a Welsh home. When he was Prince of Wales, Charles bought the 192-acre estate of Llwynywermod in Carmarthenshire, Wales, in 2006. Comprising a farmhouse building, where he and Camilla would regularly holiday, and three cottages, Charles soon set about renovating the house and its adjoining properties in a greener way, using locally sourced materials. 

On Charles’ ascension to the throne, the property was passed on to William, the new Prince of Wales, and Catherine, Princess of Wales, who also have a strong affection for the Welsh countryside, having spent some of the early years of their marriage living in Anglesey.

What’s special about here is that two of the cottages are available for holiday lets – North Range, for instance, is a beautiful whitewashed converted barn that sleeps six guests across three bedrooms and comes with a flagstone floor, open fire, Welsh furniture and lots of character. The smaller West Range sleeps four guests.

North Range and West Range can be booked through the Duchy of Cornwall (01579 346 473) and cost from £1,225 per week.

Balmoral, Aberdeenshire

Elizabeth II spent her final weeks in Balmoral and this palace in the Highlands was reputedly her favourite home. 

She is not the only royal to have felt an affinity for the place. Queen Victoria, who fell in love with the Highlands during her very first visit in 1842, was the first monarch to call it home. She and Albert loved to escape public life here, embarking on expeditions incognito through the Highlands. 

The late Queen spent every summer at Balmoral (August–October) and she would regularly be joined by other members of the Royal family. When the monarch is not in residence, the site is open to visitors. 

Although you can only see a small section of the castle’s interiors – including the ballroom where Ghillies Balls have historically been held – it’s the majestic setting amid acres of greenery with views across to the Cairngorms that makes a visit here worthwhile. 

The Royal family are considered locals in the nearby village of Ballater and are regularly seen attending services at nearby Crathie Kirk. Indeed in April 2023, Charles and Camilla surprised residents by making an unexpected visit to a new fishmongers and restaurant in the village during a pre-Coronation holiday at Balmoral.

Balmoral (01339 742 534) is open for pre-booked self-guided tours every summer (1 April to 16 Aug 2023). The Fife Arms (read the review here ) has double rooms from £250 including breakfast.

Read more about where the Royal family like to holiday here .

Sandringham, Norfolk

The Royal family traditionally spends Christmas at the sprawling estate of Sandringham. The private country retreat has been a popular haunt since 1862, when the Jacobean house was built for King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra while Edward’s mother was still on the throne.

It was also a favourite of King Charles III’s grandfather, King George VI, and great-grandfather, King George V, who both died here. The house and gardens are a joy to explore. Norfolk is also where Anmer Hall, another of William and Catherine’s homes, is located.

Sandringham (01485 544 112) is open Sat-Thu (summer). The Brisley Bell (read the review here ) has double rooms from £133 including breakfast.

Royal Yacht Britannia, Edinburgh

Until 1997 the Royal family would take annual holidays around Scotland’s Western Isles aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia . After the yacht was decommissioned, it was docked in the seaside Edinburgh suburb of Leith in Edinburgh and has since become one of Scotland’s most popular attractions.

A tour of the yacht allows you to peer into the bedroom that Queen Elizabeth II slept in while on board and reveals a glimpse of what life in the Royal family is like when the eyes of the world are not upon them. The late Queen clearly missed her days on board; after the yacht was no longer available to her, she chartered the Hebridean Princess , which offers small-ship cruises, on two separate occasions for special celebrations.

The Royal Yacht Britannia (0131 555 5566) is open daily (summer). Fingal (read the review here ) is a luxurious floating hotel nearby. It has double rooms from £300 including breakfast. The Hebridean Princess (01756 704 704) offers cruises from March to November with prices from £4,420pp for seven nights).

Read more about the travels of Elizabeth II here .

Kensington Palace, London

This west London mansion was the beloved home of Princess Diana and both the Diana Memorial Fountain and the Diana Memorial Playground can be found in its gardens. Apartment 1a is still the London pad of the Prince of Wales and his family. 

For many years, Kensington was known for the magnificent balls that were held across its ornate interconnected rooms and began in the late 17 th century during the era of King William and Mary. The already grandiose interiors were later added to by the Georgians when Kensington became the hub of high society. Elaborate decoration, such as the painted walls around the King’s Staircase which features many characters from George I’s court, were also added. 

As well as standard tours of the palace, regular exhibitions draw on its rich history, telling the stories of past and present royals in new and dynamic ways. Victoria: A Royal Childhood tells the story of one of the palace’s most famous residents. Queen Victoria was born here and the exhibition includes personal items such as her doll house. Other rolling exhibitions let visitors see precious items from the palace’s archive; often including iconic outfits worn by various members of the Royal family.

Kensington Palace (0333 320 6000) is open Wed–Sun (summer).  Baglioni (read the review here ), opposite Kensington Gardens, has double rooms from £494 including breakfast.

Sign up to the Front Page newsletter for free: Your essential guide to the day's agenda from The Telegraph - direct to your inbox seven days a week.